In Togo, socio-political tensions are rising as a series of youth-led protests begins today, Thursday, June 26. The demonstrations, which continue through Friday and Saturday, were widely mobilized via social media and have drawn support from opposition political parties and civil society organizations.

Protesters are calling for the resignation of Faure Gnassingbé, President of the National Council and long-time leader, citing two decades of rule marked by governance failures, increasing rights abuses, and the erosion of civic and media freedoms.

Despite official warnings that unauthorized protests would be met with a crackdown, demonstrators say they remain determined to voice their frustrations in the streets.