In Togo, opposition parties and civil society groups are rallying against the country’s recent transition to a parliamentary system, which they say marks an authoritarian turn.

A newly formed ad-hoc working group led a mass protest in Lomé, condemning the creation of the 5th Republic and the appointment of new state leaders.

Protesters argue the changes undermine democratic accountability and concentrate power in the hands of a few.

Tensions continue to rise as the opposition demands a rollback of the reforms and a national dialogue.