WAYA raises concerns over violent crackdowns on youth demonstrations in Togo

By Eric K. Amoh/Albert Futukpor

Tamale, July 7, GNA – The West African Youth Alliance (WAYA) has raised concerns over the ongoing developments in Togo where youth-led protests against perceived Constitutional manipulation and democratic backsliding have been met with violent crackdowns. 

This was in a statement issued by WAYA, signed by Mohammed Inusah, its Chairperson, and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Tamale. 

The statement said, “We have engaged our youth representatives and civil society contacts in Togo, who have confirmed that indeed, the protests currently underway are driven by deep frustrations over recent Constitutional reforms perceived to entrench power indefinitely.” 

It said, “These developments raise serious concerns about democratic governance and youth participation in decision-making processes within the region.” 

It said, “Reports from credible international and local sources confirm that the response from state security forces has included excessive use of force, mass arrests, suppression of press freedom, and tragically the loss of young lives.” 

It condemned any form of violence, whether from state or non-state actors, and called for an immediate cessation of forceful suppression of citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and free expression. 

The statement said, “While we acknowledge perspectives from some national youth institutions suggesting that certain protests may have contravened local laws or involved external influences, we reiterate that such concerns must not override fundamental rights or justify deadly crackdowns.” 

It called on the Government of Togo to respect the constitutional rights of its citizens, ensure accountability for the reported abuses, and engage youth in meaningful national dialogue. 

It called on ECOWAS and the African Union to urgently intervene and help mediate the growing crisis to prevent further escalation and restore democratic order. 

WAYA called on “All youth organizations in the region to stand in solidarity with the youth of Togo, advocate for non-violence, and continue demanding responsive, inclusive governance.” 

The statement said, “As a sub-regional youth movement focused on democracy, good governance, and civic inclusion, WAYA stands ready to work with partners, national youth bodies, and civil society to foster peace, democracy, and accountability throughout West Africa.” 

The statement expressed condolences to the families of those who had lost their lives, adding “We stand in solidarity with all young people, who continue to raise their voices for justice, dignity, and constitutional order in Togo.” 

GNA 

Edited by Eric K. Amoh/Christian Akorlie