Soldiers in Togo used tear gas and batons to disperse hundreds of demonstrators blocking key roads in the capital, Lomé, as protests reignited against Faure Gnassingbé, the country’s longtime ruler. The demonstrators, mobilized by bloggers and activists, called for his immediate resignation.

New Role Sparks Uproar

The unrest followed last month’s decision granting Gnassingbé the role of President of the Council of Ministers — a position with no term limits. Opposition parties have described the move as a "constitutional coup," accusing the government of paving the way for lifelong rule by the Gnassingbé dynasty, which has held power since 1967.

Civil Unrest and Arrests

Clashes continued into Thursday afternoon, with many shops shuttered and smoke from burning barricades darkening the skies over Lomé. "We’re hungry. Nothing works for Togolese youth any more," said Kossi Albert, a 30-year-old unemployed protester, pledging to return to the streets the next day.

Amnesty International reported that dozens were arrested earlier this month during similar demonstrations. Most were later released.

Media Censorship Increases

In a related move, the Togolese government last week suspended broadcasts of French news outlets RFI and France 24 for three months, accusing them of lacking impartiality and professional rigor.