Widespread protests have broken out across Togo following controversial constitutional reforms that could allow President Faure Gnassingbé to extend his 19-year rule indefinitely. Demonstrations, particularly in the capital Lomé, have drawn heavy-handed responses from security forces, with reports of arbitrary arrests, internet censorship, and violent crackdowns on activists. The reforms, passed in April by Togo’s National Assembly, transition the country from a presidential to a parliamentary system—critics say this maneuver effectively resets presidential term limits and paves the way for Gnassingbé to remain in power as head of state, potentially until 2031 or beyond.
Opposition parties, civil society organizations, and international observers have condemned the changes as undemocratic and a betrayal of the Togolese people’s will. Human rights watchdogs have documented the arrest of dozens of protesters and political activists, while social media platforms have been flooded with images and videos of alleged police brutality.
“This is not reform—it’s a coup by constitutional manipulation,” said Brigitte Kafui Adjamagbo-Johnson, a leading opposition figure. She and other political leaders are calling for President Gnassingbé’s immediate resignation and the restoration of democratic checks and balances. President Gnassingbé, who came to power in 2005 following the death of his father, former president Gnassingbé Eyadéma, has not publicly commented on the growing unrest. However, his government insists the reforms are legal and necessary for “institutional stability.”
Civic groups have vowed to keep mobilizing despite threats, surveillance, and what they describe as systematic repression. Protests are expected to continue throughout the week amid growing calls for international mediation.
