The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has expressed concern about the current state of affairs in Togo.
In a press release issued on July 1, the Commission called on all stakeholders in the ongoing conflict to opt for dialogue.
“The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has followed with concern the recent social demonstrations in certain towns in Togo, particularly in Lome, which have had regrettable human and material consequences. In the interest of social cohesion, the ECOWAS Commission calls for restraint and urges all stakeholders to favour dialogue with a view to creating a peaceful socio-economic and political climate conducive to development,” the press release indicated.
“The ECOWAS Commission expresses its sympathy and remains available to contribute to efforts to preserve social peace in the Togolese Republic,” it noted.
On June 29, protesters and security forces clashed for a second straight day in Togo’s capital Lomé over recent constitutional reforms that could cement President Faure Gnassingbé’s long hold on power. Videos emerged showing apparent abuses by security forces.
Police fired tear gas in several neighborhoods of Lomé and reportedly used batons to beat protesters, severely injuring some, according to footage that appears to be from the scene.
Some videos showed what seem to be security units entering homes and assaulting residents with whips and clubs, while groups of men in plain clothes, believed to be auxiliary forces or self-defense units, patrolled parts of the capital with weapons in hand.
“We strongly condemn the violence with which unarmed protesters have been met,” Professor David Dosseh, spokesman for a coalition of a dozen civil society groups, told The Associated Press.
