Since August, the opposition has been holding big demonstrations against President Faure Gnassingbe and to demand political reforms.

Home Affairs Minister M Payadowa Boukpessi made the announcement along with a senior security official on Tuesday.

They stated there have been "calls for violence [and] civil disobedience", including attacks on "security forces during opposition demonstrations". In future demonstrations will not be allowed on the streets – only rallies in a specific place.

“On the weekend, you will be able to march or parade,” the minister said.

President Gnassingbe has been in power since 2005. He took office after the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had been at the helm for 38 years.