The government of Togo has issued international arrest warrants for leaders of the M66 Citizens’ Movement, a coalition of bloggers and activists who spearheaded a wave of anti-government protests across the country in June 2025.
The demonstrations, held on the 6th, 26th, 27th, and 28th of June, drew nationwide attention as thousands took to the streets to protest against rising living costs, arrests of public commentators, and sweeping constitutional reforms.
The protesters also called for the resignation of President Faure Gnassingbé, who recently assumed the powerful role of President of the Council of Ministers following Togo’s transition from a presidential to a parliamentary system.
At a press conference in Lomé on Wednesday, July 9, Minister of Security Calixte Madjoulba confirmed the warrants, noting that investigations were ongoing and that Togo would seek the cooperation of foreign governments to apprehend the activists.
“Rest assured, investigations are ongoing. Arrest warrants have been issued. The countries where these individuals reside are urged to cooperate. Wherever they are, we will pursue them,” Madjoulba stated.
Togolese authorities have accused the M66 leaders—many of whom are reportedly based abroad—of orchestrating public unrest and attempting to destabilise the country. Colonel Hodabalo Anate, Minister of Territorial Administration, described their actions as “acts of subversion,” equating them to terrorism.
“It is terrorism when you invite citizens to engage in gratuitous violence,” Anate declared. “Unauthorised protests cannot be considered a democratic right.”
Despite the crackdown, opposition to the government’s reforms continues to grow. Social media restrictions have been imposed in recent days, but this has done little to suppress public dissatisfaction.
Civil society groups report at least seven deaths and numerous arrests during the June protests, which were heavily repressed by security forces. A judicial inquiry has since been launched to investigate the fatalities.
The government has rejected opposition calls to postpone local elections scheduled for July 17, insisting the vote will proceed as planned. In response, the M66 movement has called for renewed protests on July 16 and 17.
Several analysts see the arrest warrants as part of a broader effort to silence dissent and weaken youth-led civic engagement in the country.
“Rather than initiating dialogue with actors across the socio-political landscape, particularly the youth-led movements, the authorities are opting for suppression,” said Kao Atcholli, President of the Association of Torture Victims of Togo.
As political tensions continue to rise, all eyes remain on how Togo’s government will handle growing domestic and international scrutiny over its handling of dissent and democratic expression.
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