Togo: Authorities urged to investigate violence at opposition party event to protect peaceful assembly rights

Togo Authorities have been urged to investigate the violence that erupted during the Convention Démocratique des Peuples Africains (CDPA) opposition party conference held in Lomé on September 29. The incident, which saw several participants injured, has sparked widespread concern over the protection of peaceful assembly rights in Togo.

The attack occurred during a speech by Senegalese ECOWAS parliament member Guy Marius Sagna, leading to a chaotic scene where chairs and projectiles were hurled at the audience and podium. Among those injured were MPs, journalists, and conference attendees, with at least ten people requiring medical attention. Witnesses reported that the gendarmes present at the event failed to intervene, raising questions about the adequacy of security measures.

Amnesty International has called for an immediate and independent investigation into the violence, emphasizing the need for authorities to ensure the protection of the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. Samira Daoud, Regional Director for West and Central Africa at Amnesty International, described the incident as “unacceptable” and highlighted the importance of accountability to prevent future violations.

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Despite the violence, this incident has brought greater attention to the necessity of safeguarding democratic processes in Togo. The government has acknowledged the issue, with the director of national police confirming that legal proceedings have been initiated to address the situation. This move marks a positive step toward addressing the grievances surrounding the event, as calls for transparency and justice grow.