Anniversary Of The Failed Attack On Lomé
Although the Anniversary of the Failed Attack on Lomé isn’t a public holiday on which people have the day off or businesses are closed, it is an important holiday in Togo. This holiday commemorates the 1986 coup d’état attempt that occurred in Togo on September 24, 1986.
Togo (Public holiday)On this date, a group of men launched an assault on the military barracks that served as the residence of the president of Togo at the time. This was an attempt to topple the government, but it ultimately failed. It’s a holiday that is observed with solemn ceremonies, exhibitions, and presentations that highlight the significance of the day.
The History of the Failed Attack on Lomé in Togo
During the mid-19th century, Togo was occupied by German traders and colonists, and in 1884 it became a protectorate. Across the country, plantations were established by both German corporations and the colonial government. During WWI, British and French colonial troops from Dahomey and the Gold Coast secured the surrender of the Germans.
This is when the eastern portion of Togo became administered by France, and the western part was administered by the British. On April 27, 1960, the Togolese Republic was proclaimed, and the first presidential elections were held the following year.
Sylvanus Olympio became the first president of the country. Jumping ahead to 1986, this was the time when rebels entered the city of Lomé in about 30 or 40 trucks. They headed to a military camp where President General Gnassingbé Eyadéma lived and launched an assault on it with machine guns and rocket launchers.
Rebels also attacked the governing political party headquarters and the radio station. The result of the attack is that the Togolese Armed Forces were able to repel the attackers. Not only did President General of Togo survive the attack, but he was also re-elected unopposed on December 21, 1986. He would rule the country until his death on February 5, 2005.
Observing the Failed Attack on Lomé in Togo
This holiday is observed with minimal celebrations, although there may be public observances established by the government. It’s a day to highlight the 1986 coup d’état attempt to overthrow the government.
Togo (Public holiday)
