Togo ends political rallies ban

The opposition wants the new president to step down

The authorities in Togo have lifted a ban on public rallies imposed after the death of President Gnassingbe Eyadema almost two weeks ago.

The opposition has condemned the army-backed installation of his son, Faure Gnassingbe, as president.

A mass rally is expected to take place on Saturday in the capital, Lome. Four protestors have been killed in similar demonstrations against the new leader.

West African leaders have threatened sanctions if elections are not held.

The constitution was changed after the Eyadema's death, to allow Mr Faure to serve out his father's full term of office until 2008.

We expect that the constitution will be fully reinstated Ecowas's Mohammed ibn Chambas

The 15-member Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) has threatened Togo with sanctions unless new elections are held.

"We expect that the constitution will be fully reinstated," Ecowas Executive Secretary Mohammed ibn Chambas said on Thursday.

The BBC's Ebow Godwin in Lome says there is an air of suspense in the capital as people await an announcement.

Has Faure Gnassingbe decided to step down?

Interior Minister Francois Boko said the restrictions on political activities had been put in place to maintain order during the period of mourning for the late president.

Opposition parties say they are relieved to hear about the lifting of the ban, and intend to go ahead with a planned rally.

The move is being seen as an attempt by the government to make amends with the opposition and end the running skirmishes with police, our correspondent says.

On Friday morning, the lawyers staged a sit-in demonstration to protest against the installation of Mr Faure.

Test for Africa

On Thursday a Togolese delegation met Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo - who currently chairs the African Union (AU).

The Togolese officials explained that Mr Faure had been sworn in to prevent anarchy.

A spokeswoman for Mr Obasanjo said afterwards: "President Obasanjo, while expressing an understanding of their situation, left them in no doubt as to the position of Ecowas and the African Union on the unconstitutional takeover of power."

Togo's army remains loyal to Eyadema - and his son

Analysts say Togo's succession is proving a real test for African leaders, and in particular for the AU, in proving to the West it can safeguard good governance and democracy on the continent.

Meanwhile, a delegation of the Francophone Community is holding a meeting in Lome with the Togolese government.

The community imposed sanctions on Togo until the country returns to "constitutional order".

The new leader has already promised "free and fair" elections soon - but correspondents say he may be referring to parliamentary polls due this year, rather than a presidential ballot.