On Saturday, May 9, 2026, the National Framework for Consultation for Change (CNCC), of which Tournons La Page Togo is a member, held its first official public appearance through a rally organized at the Akassimé grounds to challenge the establishment of the Fifth Republic in Togo.

Strong opposition to the fifth Republic

The central theme of the speeches was the denunciation of the new Constitution. According to Professor David Dosseh, former national coordinator of TLP-Togo and spokesperson for the Front Citoyen Togo Debout (FCTD), the Fifth Republic serves no purpose other than the “monarchization of power” and the perpetuation of a political dynasty.

The leaders present — including Jean-Pierre Fabre (ANC), Me Dodji Apevon (FDR), Professor Komi Wolou (PSR), and the young activist Benjamin Amouzouvi — condemned what they described as governance marked by corruption, the deterioration of basic social services, and a decline in democratic freedoms.

Several pressing national issues were also addressed, including the arrest of certain citizens such as Honoré Sitsopé Sokpor, also known as Affectio, a member of TLP-Togo; the appointment of military officers as prefects; and the precarious situation facing Togolese youth. Jean-Pierre Fabre also used the platform to mock some recent statements made by government officials regarding the new Constitution.

A Time for Self-Criticism and Unity

One of the key moments of the rally was the call for internal cohesion. Learning from past failures, CNCC leaders displayed an unusual degree of humility. They urged activists to stop harshly criticizing opposition leaders and, likewise, called on political actors to put an end to internal disputes.

“No opponent should attack another opponent anymore. Whoever does so weakens the opposition and strengthens the regime,” stressed Professor Komi Wolou.

In a more spiritual tone, Me Dodji Apevon also encouraged Togolese citizens to combine prayer with political engagement, describing the current struggle as both a civic and moral battle.

A Message to the Regime: “The People Are Still Standing”

Despite the weight of the years, the notable presence of Me Zeus Ajavon highlighted the historic dimension of the gathering. For the organizers, the success of the rally proved that the desire for change in Togo is far from extinguished.

It must be said that uncertainty loomed before the event. Between the sense of resignation that seemed to be spreading among part of the population and the recent constitutional changes, even opposition leaders admitted to feeling apprehensive.

“We did not expect such a large turnout,” acknowledged Professor David Dosseh. Yet the crowd — made up of committed activists and many ordinary citizens — showed up in force, braving the heat to listen to the leading figures of the CNCC.

By successfully passing this first test in Akassimé, the CNCC hopes to have revived a lasting momentum for mobilization. “The Togolese people have demonstrated that they are still standing, that they do not accept this situation,” concluded David Dosseh. The question now remains whether this momentum can evolve into a movement capable of influencing the country’s political future.