A coalition of civil society groups in Togo is mobilizing for a fresh protest on August 9, 2025, aimed at both commemorating the lives lost during June’s deadly repression and challenging the authorities’ ongoing silence and denial.
Despite two refusals by the Ministry of Territorial Administration, the organizers—led by the NGO Novation Internationale—say the peaceful march will proceed in Lomé. According to the formal notification submitted to local authorities, the demonstration is set to begin at 11 a.m. from Bè Gakpoto Yéssouvito, moving through Aklassou and Bè-Hédjé streets before concluding at La Lagune de Bè, Lavista Park. This route was deliberately chosen for its symbolic weight: the communities it crosses were among those most impacted by the June crackdown.
Civil society leaders stress that this march is not only an act of remembrance but also a test of the government’s tolerance for dissent. “We want the families of the victims to be heard,” said a spokesperson from Novation Internationale. “And we want to see if the authorities will allow citizens to express themselves peacefully, or continue down the path of repression.”
Disputed toll after June protest
At least seven people were reportedly killed in the June protests, which were sparked by growing public discontent over political and economic conditions. The government has contested those figures, promising to launch an investigation. However, no findings have been made public to date.
Official narrative unravels on French Television
The government’s handling of the crisis has come under renewed scrutiny following an uncomfortable TV appearance by Togo’s Minister of Human Rights, Pacôme Adjourouvi. Interviewed on TV5 Monde, the minister attempted to present an official account of the protests and the broader political situation. But his responses fell flat, as the interviewer—well-informed on the ground realities—challenged him on the stark contrast between government claims and independent reports from human rights organizations, local witnesses, and videos circulating online.
Asked whether similar future demonstrations would be allowed, the minister gave no definitive answer. Although he asserted that “freedom of assembly is guaranteed,” many observers remain skeptical, pointing to the near-total repression of anti-regime protests since 2017, when widespread calls began for President Faure Gnassingbé to step down.
The situation remains tense, especially after the latest constitutional revision earlier this year—widely criticized as a ploy to extend Gnassingbé’s rule indefinitely.
Digital Clampdown Continues
Further complicating the political climate is the continued restriction of internet access. Social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok are largely inaccessible without VPNs, limiting citizens’ ability to communicate, organize, or share information freely.
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