Lomé – Tensions flared in Togo’s capital, Lomé, on Thursday as security forces used tear gas to disperse crowds of protesters calling for the resignation of President Faure Gnassingbé. The demonstrations, driven by anger over recent constitutional changes that could allow Gnassingbé to cling to power indefinitely, mark one of the strongest public challenges to his rule in years.

Streets in several neighbourhoods, including the opposition stronghold of Bè, were blocked by demonstrators who erected barricades, set tyres on fire, and hurled projectiles at security forces. Police responded with force, dispersing groups with tear gas and arresting several protesters.

Gnassingbé, who has been in power since 2005 following the death of his father, has faced growing criticism after a controversial restructuring of Togo’s constitution earlier this year. In May, he was sworn in as president of the newly formed Council of Ministers, a role with sweeping executive power and no official term limit.

Opposition leaders and activists have slammed the move as a “constitutional coup”, accusing the ruling elite of manipulating the system to entrench power.

“Faure Gnassingbé has effectively created a backdoor to stay in office for life,” said political analyst Mireille Ayivi. “This is a new low in Togo’s democratic backslide.”

Despite a nationwide ban on protests since 2022, civil society groups and youth movements organised a three-day mobilization from June 26–28 under the banner “Hands Off My Constitution.” The group issued a direct call for the president’s resignation and the release of an estimated 100 political detainees.

“We’re tired, we’re hungry, and we have no future,” said 30-year-old Kossi Albert, an unemployed protester in Lomé. “This is not just politics — it’s survival.”

Business districts shut down amid a heavy military presence across the city, with armoured vehicles spotted patrolling several areas. The Ministry of Territorial Administration did not respond to repeated requests for comment.

The unrest in Togo is unfolding in a West African region already grappling with democratic backsliding. Coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea in recent years have fuelled fears of authoritarian resurgence and instability.

“From coups to constitutional manipulations, we are witnessing a dangerous erosion of democratic norms across the region,” warned Yao Agbetse, a former UN human rights expert.

Amnesty International confirmed that dozens of arrests were made earlier this month during smaller protests. While many were released quickly, rights groups continue to raise alarm over the crackdown on dissent and worsening living conditions.

While Thursday’s protests were dispersed, organisers say the demonstrations will continue through the weekend. Activists hope to build enough pressure to force dialogue — or even political change.

“We are calling for peace, but we are not calling for silence,” the Hands Off My Constitution coalition posted on social media. “We will not be ruled by fear.”