Togo – ICFTU roundly condemns coup
With the political climate in Togo remaining unstable, the ICFTU today condemned the coup which took place in the West
African country at the weekend.
The military coup, which saw Faure Gnassingbé installed as head of state following the death of his father General
Eyadema, has prompted widespread criticism in international circles and by the African Union (AU). The ICFTU supported
calls made by the AU for authorities in Togo to renew their respect for the country’s constitution - changed
retroactively to legitimatise the appointment. In roundly condemning the undemocratic transfer of power, African leaders
also urged Togo’s authorities to hold elections and ensure a democratic transfer of power. The AU said that it would
contemplate sanctions against the coup leaders if the government continued to assume power unconstitutionally.
Echoing the statements made by its regional organisation for Africa – ICFTU-AFRO – the ICFTU called upon the AU to urge
the armed forces in Togo to reverse the move as quickly as possible.
The ICFTU represents 145 million workers in 233 affiliated organisations in 154 countries and territories. ICFTU is also
a partner in Global Unions: http://www.global-unions.org/