Togo group seeks delay for street clearing
The MMLK movement asks the government to postpone the operation until January 31, 2027.
The Mouvement Martin Luther King (MMLK), led by Pastor Edoh Komi, has asked the Togolese government to delay the clearing of public roadways until January 31, 2027. The operation was originally scheduled for November 3 to November 20, 2026.
In a statement on November 3, the MMLK acknowledged the need to clear public spaces for safety but warned that a hasty implementation could harm small businesses during the holiday season. The group also cited high commercial rents and excessive deposit demands as reasons for street occupation.
The MMLK advocates for the clearing to be accompanied by social measures and dialogue with affected populations, proposing a gradual and socially responsible transition. They stated, "Clearing, yes. But not in haste and not 45 days before the end-of-year holidays."
Why it mattersSmall business owners in Lomé face disruption to their livelihoods due to a planned street clearing operation.