Togo anti-Gnassingbe protest holds amid U.S. security alert

The United States Embassy in Togo has issued a security message for its citizens in the country citing the opposition protests called for October 4 and 5.

The Embassy in a statement issued on the eve of the protests, October 3, said in parts: “The U.S. Embassy has learned that several Togolese opposition political parties have called for nationwide protests on October 4 and 5, beginning at 8:00 a.m.

“Major traffic disruptions are possible in Lomé (the capital) both days, as three scheduled protest routes will affect many areas of northern and eastern Lomé.

“Protests in Lomé will also likely affect public bus and private taxi services. The U.S. Embassy will observe normal working hours on October 4 and 5,” they added.

READ ALSO: Faure Gnassingbe has nothing new to offer Togo after 12 years: Obasanjo

Togolese opposition political parties called for new nationwide protests against the 50-year Gnassingbe dynasty. They are demanding incumbent Faure Gnassingbe to step down immediately.

Today’s protests took off as planned with thousands turning up to protest against the regime. Most of them were dressed in red chanting slogans calling for president Faure Gnassingbe to leave power.

Thousands and thousands of people are rallying the 3 gathering points for the demonstration against FEGnassingbe #Togodebout #Fauremustgo pic.twitter.com/SCcSiHXSL2

— Farida Nabourema (Farida_N) October 4, 2017

Full statement: Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Nationwide Protests on October 4-5