Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lome (Fides Service)- “The situation is relatively tranquil but under the ashes their is still the fire of repression and revolt” said local sources in Lomé, capital of Togo, living a serious crisis since the election of President Faure Gnassimbé Eyadéma, against which the opposition has protested.
“There is no fighting or shooting but many with political, social and also ecclesial responsibility, are forced to hide because they have received threats to their life” the sources told Fides.
Details have emerged on the existence of militia groups which terrorise the local people with their ‘death squadrons’. One of these militia groups which operates in Atakpamé, central Togo, is said to be led by a former police major who reportedly killed at least 30 people between the 24 and 26 April. The militia group terrorises people who support the opposition and is said to be supplied with arms and reinforcements by the police and the army.
The country is still on the brink of civil war. Conflict with regard to the results of the election on 24 April could enflame spirits. In opposition-supporting areas 30% less people were registered on the voting lists, while in pro-President areas the number of voters registered was 85% higher. “Besides possible fraud and ‘blown up’ electoral lists this could indicate a possible division in the country ” local source told Fides.
In the meantime less people from Togo are taking refuge in other countries. UNHCR says that since last week less people from Togo have sought refuge in Benin and Ghana. And that from Ghana refugees are beginning to return home. Since the movement started following the announcement of election results on 26 April, a total number of 23,300 have returned, 12,483 from Benin and 10,856 from Ghana. Returnees say they heard on the radio that the situation in Lome was calm and other said they were going back to work on Monday.
Up to now many refugees when to work every day in Lome and then returned to spent the night in Ghana where they felt safer. UNHCR is taking stock of the number of refugees who have returned to Togo and those registered in bordering countries. Most of the refugees in Ghana are staying with family or friends. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 11/5/2005 righe 39 parole 429)
