Thu Jul 17 07:26:29 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Togo is experiencing heightened political tensions surrounding local government elections and protests calling for the resignation of President Faure Gnassingbe, whose family has ruled since 1967. Triggered by controversial constitutional changes that could allow Gnassingbe to remain in power indefinitely and the arrest of a popular rapper, the protests have been met with violent crackdowns by security forces. Demonstrators accuse the government of authoritarian tactics and repression, while the government accuses protest leaders of inciting unrest. The political climate is further complicated by a new parliamentary system that critics say concentrates power in Gnassingbe’s hands.
**News Article:**
**Togo Braces for Unrest as Local Elections Coincide with Anti-Government Protests**
**Lome, Togo** – Togo is on edge as local government elections take place amid simmering discontent and planned anti-government protests. The elections, scheduled for Thursday, mark the first polls under controversial new constitutional reforms that critics say will allow President Faure Gnassingbe to extend his family’s decades-long rule.
Tensions have been rising in recent weeks, fueled by anger over the rising cost of living, the arrest of a popular rapper who called for protests, and the constitutional changes that have been labeled a “constitutional coup” by opposition leaders. These reforms shift the country to a parliamentary system but also create a powerful “President of the Council of Ministers” position, which Gnassingbe has assumed, effectively consolidating his power.
Protests, led largely by the country’s youth, have been met with a heavy hand by Togolese security forces, resulting in at least seven deaths, according to local rights groups. Demonstrators are intentionally clashing the protests with the date of the vote, raising fears of widespread violence.
The government has accused protest leaders, many residing in exile, of inciting unrest and issued international arrest warrants for several members of the M66 Citizens’ Movement. Security Minister Calixte Madjoulba stated that the government would pursue these individuals “wherever they are.”
While some opposition figures are advocating for participation in the municipal elections to demonstrate the possibilities for change, others, including activists and exiled protest leaders, are calling for a boycott, arguing that the elections will not bring about meaningful change.
Togo’s importance as a regional maritime and transit hub, with a key port in Lome and a major West African airline, means that any significant unrest could have wider implications for the region. The international community is closely watching the situation as Togo grapples with its political future.
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