The main opposition party in Togo, the National Alliance for Change (ANC), led by Jean-Pierre Fabre on Tuesday, announced it will boycott the official Independence Day celebrations scheduled for 27 April 2026.
The decision comes as the country prepares to mark the 66th anniversary of its independence. The party says it will not take part in what it describes as symbolic festivities that do not reflect the true state of the nation’s democracy.
The ANC criticized what it called a “facade independence”, arguing that the principles of sovereignty and democratic governance have been weakened. It maintains that participating in the celebrations would amount to endorsing a political system it considers neither inclusive nor genuinely democratic.
A party spokesperson stated that meaningful independence should not be measured by ceremonial events, but by citizens’ ability to freely choose their leaders and enjoy full civil liberties.
The opposition further outlined conditions for future engagement in national events, including improved electoral transparency, stronger respect for civil rights, and greater accountability in governance.
The boycott comes amid heightened political tensions in Togo, following recent institutional reforms, including a shift towards a parliamentary system and adjustments to executive authority, developments which have deepened divisions between government and opposition forces.
Meanwhile, the Government has called for national unity, urging citizens to participate in the 27 April celebrations as a symbol of pride and cohesion despite political differences.