In Togo, there is mounting opposition from civil society groups, political parties, and academic circles against the newly enacted constitution by President Faure Gnassingbé on May 6. To express their discontent, these groups are organizing a protest on June 30 in the capital Lomé.
The recent constitutional amendment in Togo has raised serious concerns regarding the legitimacy and transparency of its adoption process. Many observers view this move as an attempt by the regime to consolidate its power and curtail democratic freedoms in the country.
This protest is set to take place on June 30 at 2:00 PM at the Espoir field in Akassimé, located in Lomé’s Golfe 4 district. Its organisers believe that it will serve as a useful platform for citizens to express their disapproval of the recent constitutional changes brought forth by the ruling party.
Critics have termed the amendment a “constitutional coup,” pointing to ongoing political and social tensions in the country. “We will never accept this new constitution, even after its promulgation. The Togolese people must decisively look towards 2025,” David Dosseh, a spokesperson for the civil society groups, told The Associated Press following the promulgation of the new text. “At that point, a presidential election is absolutely necessary for the people to choose a new president and finally achieve a democratic transition in Togo.”
The mass mobilization on June 30 aims to underscore the importance of democracy and the rule of law in building a fair and equitable nation for all Togolese people.
Simultaneously, some political figures are seeking support from neighboring countries and the international community to address the situation in Togo, underscoring the regional implications of the ongoing crisis.