Precisely one year ago, on June 26, 2025, Togo was marred by one of the most poignant episodes of the nationwide demonstrations. On that fateful day, Jacques Koami Koutoglo, a mere 15-year-old adolescent, tragically lost his life under circumstances that continue to ignite public indignation and unresolved inquiries. Numerous accounts from relatives and civil society organizations indicate that his body was discovered in the lagoon following the tumultuous events.
Beyond the immediate human tragedy, this incident has become emblematic of the accusations of violence perpetrated against civilians during popular uprisings. For many observers, the death of a minor during a protest serves as a stark reminder of the profound human cost associated with the enduring political tensions in Togo.
Yet, for Jacques’s family, the anguish did not cease with his disappearance. Weeks after his demise, authorities reportedly denied permission to hold a commemorative mass on July 8, 2025, marking the 40th day since his passing. This decision deeply distressed his loved ones, who perceived it as an infringement upon their fundamental right to mourn with dignity.
In the view of many Togolese citizens, impeding a family’s ability to honor the memory of their child prolongs their ordeal. Indeed, beyond political disagreements, the right to grieve a loved one and pay tribute is a cornerstone of fundamental liberties and respect for human dignity.
A year later, the name of Jacques Koami Koutoglo remains inextricably linked to demands for truth, justice, and the eradication of impunity. His untimely death continues to fuel calls for independent investigations into the violence that characterized the June 2025 demonstrations, alongside the imperative to establish accountability.
For many, any prospect of lasting national reconciliation remains elusive until victims’ families receive definitive answers regarding the exact circumstances of these deaths and until justice is unequivocally served. When a child’s life is cut short amidst political contention, it compels an entire nation to reflect on the protection of fundamental rights and the responsibility of those in power.
