At least seven killed, dozens wounded during anti-reform protests in Togo

LOMÉ, June 30- Civil society groups report that at least seven people were killed and dozens injured in Togo during anti-government protests, accusing the police of using excessive force to contain the demonstrators.

Police reportedly used tear gas and batons to disperse the protesters in several parts of the capital city, Lomé. The Togolese authorities denied that the deaths resulted from the arrest, claiming in a released statement that forensic reports indicate the victims drowned. No official death toll has been released.

The protesters are calling for the resignation of the longtime ruler, Faure Gnassingbe, who was sworn in as the president of the council of ministers – an executive role with no term limit. His previous ceremonial role as the national president was assigned to Jean-Lucien Kwassi Savi de Trove. Opposition leaders have condemned the move as a “constitutional coup.”

Human rights groups organized a three-day protest from June 26 to 28. Businesses closed, and a heavy police presence was deployed in the main streets. The demonstrations were largely led by the youth who blocked roads and burned tires during the protests.

President Gnassingbe has maintained power since 2005, succeeding his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who came to power through a military coup in 1967.

According to human rights groups, over 60 people were arrested during the demonstrations.

Amnesty International has indicated that more than 50 were also arrested during earlier protests on June 5 and 6. Despite their release, the organizations have raised concerns over arbitrary arrests, lack of due process, and reports of ill-treatment in custody.