For many Togolese under the age of 60, a life not ruled by the Gnassingbé family remains a distant memory. Now, in the face of economic stagnation, political repression, and worsening living conditions, a new generation is taking to the streets to demand change.

At the heart of this growing movement is 23-year-old Elom, a university student who, like thousands of his peers, is demanding an end to the regime that has dominated Togo for decades. “We are tired of this regime… We, the youth, have no hope left,” he said during a demonstration in Lome, the capital.

President Faure Gnassingbé assumed office in 2005 following the death of his father, Eyadéma Gnassingbé, who ruled Togo with an iron grip for 38 years. Now, nearly two decades later, his government is facing one of its most significant challenges as public dissatisfaction boils over.

The latest wave of protests erupted in June 2025 following the controversial arrest of rapper Aamron, who was detained after a satirical Facebook post marking the president’s birthday. His arrest sparked outrage among young Togolese, leading to mass protests fueled by social media activism.

Protesters are voicing deep frustrations over high youth unemployment, rising electricity prices, and systemic government mismanagement. With over 60% of the population under 25 and 43% living in poverty, many feel shut out of economic opportunity. A recent Afrobarometer poll found that over a third of Togolese are considering emigration.

Civil society groups report that at least seven people died in clashes with police during the June protests, including youths aged between 15 and 25, some of whom were later found drowned near protest sites. The government, meanwhile, has denounced the demonstrations as acts of terrorism and issued arrest warrants for dissidents in exile.

Despite the crackdown, protest leaders—including bloggers, artists, and young professionals—remain resolute. Plans for renewed demonstrations are underway, particularly around the upcoming municipal elections. “I’ll be back in the streets on July 16 and 17 — the fight continues,” said Yannick, a 36-year-old chauffeur.

Notably, this movement is distancing itself from traditional opposition parties, signaling a generational shift in Togo’s political landscape. According to political analyst Mohamed Madi Djabakate, today’s youth are crafting a new form of protest with their own voices, tools, and vision.

As international observers watch closely, the Gnassingbé regime faces increasing pressure to respond not just with force, but with meaningful reforms to address the aspirations of a restless, educated, and determined generation.