As Togo approaches the 36th anniversary of the October 5, 1990 uprising, the opposition is engaging in self-reflection. This event marked the beginning of the country's democratization process. On that day, the Lomé Palace of Justice was set to deliver its verdict on two young activists from the Convention démocratique des peuples africains (CDPA), Logo Dossouvi and Doglo Agbélenko, who were accused of distributing anti-regime pamphlets.
The trial sparked widespread anger, which rapidly spread from the Palace of Justice to various Lomé neighborhoods and eventually across the country. This uprising, the first against the General Gnassingbé Eyadéma regime in power since 1967, paved the way for the 1991 Sovereign National Conference and the establishment of multiparty politics. The event is considered a pivotal moment in Togo's history.
Jean Kissi, an influential opposition figure, attributes the challenges in achieving political alternation to leadership problems. Since 1990, several leaders have succeeded one another, including Yawovi Agboyibo and the Comité d'action pour le renouveau (CAR), Gilchrist Olympio and the Union des forces de changement (UFC), Jean-Pierre Fabre and the Alliance nationale pour le changement (ANC), Tikpi Atchadam and the Parti national panafricain (PNP), and Agbéyomé Kodjo, supported by Mgr Philippe Fanoko Kpodzro.
Kissi criticizes the opposition's practice of seeking to oust the current leader to take their place, describing it as a "descend-monter" approach. He advocates for a shift in strategy, focusing on mobilization and citizen responsibility rather than relying on an "emergency man." Kissi urges citizens to take charge of their destiny and be at the forefront of the political struggle.
The opposition's introspection comes as Togo prepares to commemorate the 36th anniversary of the 1990 uprising. The event is expected to spark renewed discussions on the country's progress and challenges in consolidating democracy. The opposition's ability to re-strategize and engage citizens will be crucial in determining the future of Togo's democratization process.
The 1990 uprising was a significant milestone in Togo's history, marking a turning point in the country's transition to multiparty politics. The event has had a lasting impact on Togo's politics, with various opposition groups emerging over the years. As the country commemorates this anniversary, the opposition's self-reflection and new strategies will be closely watched.
The anniversary serves as a reminder of the progress made and the challenges still ahead for Togo's democratization. As the opposition seeks a new momentum, citizens are being called upon to play a more active role in shaping the country's future. The commemoration of the 1990 uprising will likely spark renewed debates on Togo's democratic journey and the way forward.
Key points
- Togo's opposition is reflecting on the 36th anniversary of the 1990 uprising, seeking new momentum and strategies to advance democratization.
