Insights

Five opposition political parties and the Pan African National Party (PNP) call for a series of strikes and rallies to protest against recent police brutality and the leadership of President Faure Gnassingbé.

A coalition of five opposition political parties and the Pan African National Party (PNP) have called for a series of strikes and rallies to protest recent police brutality and the leadership of incumbent Togolese president, Faure Gnassingbé.  The Gnassingbé family has been ruling Togo since 1967. The organisers are planning a ‘ville mort’ (dead city) protest on 25 August, during which participants will cease all professional and economic activity between 0600-1800 LT. There have also been calls for mass rallies on 26 August. Similar nationwide protests on 19 August descended into violence. In the northern city of Sokode, several civilians and members of the security forces were killed or injured. Tear gas was used against demonstrators in Lomé, but no casualties were reported. Togolese authorities say leaders of the (PNP) will face a judicial panel for organising the previous set of rallies, accusing them of destabilisation and “urban guerrilla” warfare.

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has cautioned Ghanaian nationals against travel to Togo on the aforementioned dates. Those operating in Togo on 25/26 August are advised to anticipate service and travel disruptions. Avoid large gatherings and seek shelter if violent unrest breaks out.