Togo ex-defence minister, president’s sister-in-law arrested for urging military rebellion
Gnakadé, widow of the president’s late elder brother Ernest Gnassingbé, is accused of "inciting the military to rebellion," with prosecutors reportedly considering additional charges over alleged contacts with exiled opposition figures.
Marguerite Gnakadé, former Togolese defence minister and sister-in-law of President Faure Gnassingbé, has been arrested after publicly calling for his resignation and urging the military to side with the people against nearly six decades of family rule.
Gnakadé, the widow of Ernest Gnassingbé—the late elder brother of the president—is accused of "inciting the military to rebellion." Reports suggest prosecutors may also bring charges over her alleged contacts with exiled opposition figures.
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She was taken from her home in Lomé on Wednesday and is currently being questioned. The Togolese government has yet to fully outline the accusations against her.
"She was arrested for serious acts, including her recent public appearance inciting the military to rebellion," a police source told AFP.
Her arrest comes amid growing political unrest. Weeks of anti-government protests have left several people dead and heightened tensions in the capital.
Demonstrators accuse President Gnassingbé of consolidating power through constitutional changes that created a powerful Council of Ministers, a position he assumed in May with no term limits.
Power for 58 years
Gnassingbé has ruled since 2005, taking over from his father, Gnassingbé Éyadéma, who led the country for 38 years. Together, the family has held power in Togo for 58 years, fuelling anger among opposition parties and civil society.
Gnakadé served as defence minister from 2020 to 2022, becoming one of the first women to hold the influential post. Since leaving office, she has become an outspoken critic of the government.
Her detention has drawn sharp criticism from opposition and rights groups. Civil society organisation Touche Pas À Ma Constitution called it an "abuse of power," alleging she was taken by hooded officers without a warrant.
The youth movement M66 has also issued a 72-hour ultimatum for her release, threatening nationwide protests if the demand is ignored.
Her case has stirred unease within the military as well, with some officers crediting her for improving conditions during her tenure as defence minister.
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