Internet access in Togo has been severely restricted as opposition supporters gather to protest against the rule of President Faure Gnassingbé. Some users say internet speeds are slow and access to social media platforms has been limited. Protesters have rejected a government proposal to bring about a two-term presidential limit, saying it is a ploy to extend the president's rule. They want President Gnassingbé, who has been in power since 2005, to step down.
He became president after the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had been at the helm for 38 years. Government spokesperson Gilbert Bawara told a local radio station that there was an ongoing internet restriction:
"Even in most developed countries, authorities take control of telecommunications in some cases," he said.
AFP news agency reported that mobile internet had been shut down in the capital, Lomé, but added that wi-fi networks were still working.
The protests have been organised by a coalition of opposition parties and civil society organisations. Local journalist Blamé Ekoué reported that organisers said that they would not relent in their push for a two-term limit and for the release of some of their members who were arrested, charged and sentenced, after similar protests last week.
Police clashed with opposition supporters who were chanting "50 years is too long".
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