Unrest Erupts in Togo as Protesters Demand Presidential Resignation
Lomé, Togo — June 26, 2025:
Massive unrest has shaken the West African nation of Togo as thousands of protesters flood the streets of Lomé, calling for the immediate resignation of President Faure Gnassingbé. The protests, which began peacefully, escalated rapidly following a series of controversial constitutional reforms viewed by many as a way for Gnassingbé to retain power indefinitely.
Demonstrators, led by civil society groups and pro-democracy movements, denounced the new law creating a “President of the Council of Ministers” position—a role without term limits that Gnassingbé is expected to assume when his current term ends. This move is being widely condemned as a “constitutional coup.”
“We are tired. Togo is not one man’s kingdom. Faure must go!” shouted a protester in the Bè district, one of Lomé’s protest hotspots.
🚨 Brutal Crackdown: Hot Water Used on Protesters
Reports and viral videos have surfaced showing Togolese security forces using water cannons filled with hot wateragainst unarmed civilians. Protesters can be seen screaming and running for safety as scalding water rains down on them—a disturbing escalation that has drawn fierce condemnation from human rights observers.
“This isn’t crowd control—it’s torture,” said a spokesperson for the regional watchdog group Justice Africa.
Police have also fired tear gas, patrolled neighborhoods with military vehicles, and allegedly conducted house-to-house searches in an effort to silence opposition.
📵 Internet Disruptions & Arrests
In an effort to limit information flow, the Togolese government has reportedly slowed or shut down internet access in key regions, while at least 10 individuals have been arrested for participating in the protests. The use of plainclothes security agents to infiltrate crowds has further intensified fear among activists and civilians alike.
🗣️ International Reaction & Civil Resistance
As the unrest intensifies, global organizations such as Amnesty International, ECOWAS, and the United Nations are being urged to step in. Meanwhile, the protest organizers have declared that nationwide demonstrations will continue through June 28, despite government threats.
Togo’s long struggle for democracy dates back decades, with Faure Gnassingbé’s presidency beginning in 2005 following the death of his father, who ruled for 38 years. For many Togolese, the current protests represent not just a rejection of recent reforms but a deeper cry for change after 50+ years of dynastic rule.
📸 On the Ground: Images of Resistance
Footage circulating online shows bold acts of defiance—youths waving Togo’s red-yellow-green flag, burning barricades, and blocking roads with tires and concrete blocks, despite heavy security presence.
“The people are no longer afraid. We want justice, freedom, and democracy,” said one activist.
📍 What’s Next?
With two more days of protests planned and the government showing no signs of backing down, the situation remains tense. All eyes are on Lomé as the Togolese people confront their country’s most significant democratic challenge in years.
📌 Reported by: BBNN Global News Desk
🖋️ Writer: BBNN Africa Correspondent Team
📸 Source Footage: Verified social media clips and independent journalist accounts