Togo: Amnesty International calls for end to use of force against protesters
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Amnesty International demands accountability for protester deaths and abuses by Togo’s security forces.
Amnesty International Demands End to Brutality Against Protesters in Togo
Disturbing Testimonies Reveal Widespread Abuse by Security Forces
Amnesty International has sounded the alarm over serious human rights violations in Togo, calling on the government to halt what it describes as the “excessive and unnecessary” use of force against civilians protesting constitutional reforms. The organization published harrowing eyewitness accounts, including that of a 17-year-old boy who was detained at multiple police stations for five days and given only a sachet of water to drink each day. In another case, a man reportedly lost consciousness after being beaten by a group of soldiers, while other testimonies describe individuals abducted by unidentified armed men.
Protests Sparked by Controversial Constitutional Amendments
The unrest stems from constitutional reforms that many citizens fear could entrench President Faure Gnassingbé’s hold on power indefinitely. The latest wave of demonstrations occurred between 26 and 28 June in the capital Lomé, following earlier protests in the same month. Protesters argue that the amendments could undermine democratic governance, as they appear designed to bypass term limits and allow President Gnassingbé—already in office since 2005—to remain in power. The president succeeded his father, who ruled the country for 38 years, deepening concerns over Togo’s long-standing dynastic leadership.
Pattern of Abuse Documented by Amnesty International
Amnesty said it has documented at least 13 personal accounts pointing to a disturbing trend of unlawful violence and mistreatment by police and military personnel. Victims reported beatings, unlawful detention, and denial of food or medical care. Some were taken into custody without explanation, while others faced violence in public. These actions, according to Amnesty, violate not only Togolese law but also international human rights obligations that the country is bound to uphold.
Fatalities and Missing Persons Raise Alarming Questions
The latest protests ended in tragedy, with Amnesty reporting that at least seven people died during the demonstrations from 26 to 28 June. Several bodies were recovered from the Bè Lagoon, among them children, and some showed signs of gunshot wounds. In addition to the deaths, families have reported at least six individuals still missing as of 2 July. The lack of transparency surrounding the deaths and disappearances has only fueled anger among the population and calls for accountability.
Government Criticized for Heavy-Handed Response
Activists and human rights groups have widely condemned the government’s harsh response to peaceful dissent. Critics argue that rather than engaging in dialogue or addressing citizen concerns, the government has chosen to suppress opposition through violence and fear. Amnesty International stressed that security forces must exercise restraint and that the use of lethal force should only be a last resort when absolutely necessary to protect life.
Call for Immediate Reforms and Accountability Measures
Amnesty International is urging the Togolese government to launch an independent investigation into the recent deaths and disappearances and to hold accountable those responsible for unlawful violence. The group also called for the release of any protesters detained arbitrarily and for the protection of the rights of all individuals to peacefully demonstrate. Human rights defenders warn that if such abuses continue unchecked, Togo’s fragile democratic gains risk being completely undone.
Citizens Demand Change as Repression Increases
Despite the risks, citizens continue to mobilize, calling for justice, political reform, and an end to authoritarian rule. Civil society organizations have vowed to keep the spotlight on state abuses and to advocate for international attention to the worsening human rights situation. As Togo braces for more protests, the actions of its leaders will determine whether the country continues down a path of repression or opens space for meaningful reform.
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