A coalition of opposition groups in Togo has staged over the week-end what organizers described as the first authorized public demonstration since the introduction of the country’s Fifth Republic, two years ago (May, 6, 2024).
The protest was organized by the CNCC, a coalition formed in mid-April, to assess the political, economic and social situation following the establishment of the Fifth Republic on May 4, 2025, marked by the swearing-in of the President of the Council and the appointment of the President of the Republic.
Supporters gathered to hear speeches from opposition leaders, with calls centred on political change and improved governance.
“We want a change in governance because basic social services are failing,” said David Dosseh. He criticized the new constitutional arrangement, arguing that it allowed the existing political system to maintain its hold on power.
Another opposition figure, Komi Wolou, appealed for unity among opposition groups, saying divisions within the opposition had weakened efforts to challenge what he described as decades of dictatorship in the country.
The demonstration ended peacefully later in the afternoon, with participants dispersing amid songs and dancing. The protest comes amid growing debate over Togo’s constitutional reforms and political future under the Fifth Republic.