Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has assured Parliament that no Ghanaian nationals have been affected by the recent wave of political unrest in Togo. He confirmed that Ghana’s mission in Lomé remains fully operational and continues to monitor the situation, providing support to citizens.
Responding to a question from MP for Bosome Freho, Nana Asafo Adjei Ayeh, regarding the status of Ghanaians and the Ghanaian Embassy in Togo amid the political instability, the Minister said there have been “no reports linking any Ghanaian to recent fatalities or arrests in Lomé.”
He emphasised that Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Lomé is“engaging proactively with relevant local authorities” to safeguard the welfare of Ghanaian nationals, particularly those in areas impacted by protests.
“Our mission maintains open and active channels of communication with Togolese law enforcement and immigration services,” he said, adding that consular support is available to Ghanaians who need assistance.
The Minister revealed that diplomatic principles of non-interference and citizen protection remain central to Ghana’s foreign policy approach in handling the situation.
The unrest in Togo stems from constitutional reforms passed in March 2024, which transitioned the country from a presidential to a parliamentary system, abolishing direct presidential elections. Under the new constitution, President Faure Gnassingbé was installed as President of the Council of Ministers—a role without term limits—sparking accusations of a power grab.
“These changes were widely condemned by opposition factions, civil society, youth groups, and Amnesty International as an attempt to extend his rule indefinitely,” Ablakwa explained.
Violent protests broke out between June 26 and 28, 2025, in Lomé and surrounding areas, leading to clashes with security forces. According to the Minister, four people were confirmed dead, with local NGOs reporting additional bodies found in water bodies around Lomé. Over 60 people were detained, including students, activists, and health workers.
The Togolese government has since closed all unofficial border crossings, citing alleged cross-border coordination of the protests from Ghana. However, Minister Ablakwa firmly denied any involvement by Ghana in the unrest.
“The Government of Ghana is not aware of any protester or activist using Ghana as a base for activities in Togo. These claims are baseless,” he stated.
Currently, only the main Aflao border and the pedestrian post at Menin remain open.
The Togolese government has also faced criticism for suppressing press freedom, including suspending France 24 and Radio France Internationale from broadcasting for three months. Journalists covering the protests were reportedly mistreated and forced to delete footage.
Amnesty International and other human rights organisations have condemned the violence and called for independent investigations into the deaths and reported abuses.
“The persistent lack of official acknowledgement regarding casualties has intensified mistrust and fueled renewed calls for demonstrations,” Hon. Ablakwa told the House.
Despite the earlier unrest, the Minister reported that the current atmosphere in Lomé is calm. Businesses, offices, and Ghana’s mission are operating normally.
“The Foreign Minister of Togo has assured the diplomatic community that the situation across the country remains stable and peaceful,” Ablakwa added.
He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the safety of its citizens and to continued cooperation with Togo in promoting regional peace and stability.
