As unrest continues to escalate in the country, Togo’s Catholic bishops have once again called for a “national dialogue.”

In a strong statement issued during the recent bishops’ conference, Church leaders condemned violence, disinformation, and repeated violations of fundamental rights. The declaration follows the protests that took place in early June.

The government had responded to the numerous demonstrations with brutal force. The bishops urged the government to “give priority to peace and stability in the country through sincere cooperation with citizens and stakeholders.”