The CNCC’s first public assembly marks a significant moment for Togo’s opposition movement, which has seen limited large-scale demonstrations in recent years. The coalition seeks to challenge the 2024 constitutional reforms, which replaced direct presidential elections with a parliamentary system. Under the new framework, the prime ministership—currently held by Faure Gnassingbé—becomes the highest state office.

Why opposition leaders are speaking out

The opposition argues that the constitutional changes are a strategic move to maintain power. “It was crucial for the Togolese people to show that they remain united and refuse to endorse what amounts to a constitutional coup,” stated David Dosseh, spokesperson for the civil society group Front Citoyen Togo Debout (FCTD). He emphasized that this gathering signals the beginning of a renewed mobilization effort against the government’s policies.

Jean-Pierre Fabre, leader of the Alliance Nationale pour le Changement (ANC), also addressed the crowd, highlighting the recent re-incarceration of activist Honoré Sitsopé Sokpor, known by his alias “Affectio.” Sokpor, a vocal critic of the regime, was rearrested on May 4 after being released on judicial supervision earlier in the year. “This is arbitrary detention—pure persecution,” Fabre declared. “The regime’s tactics reveal its desperation to silence dissent.”