LOME, Togo (AP) — The Togolese government has suspended broadcasts by two French state-owned media outlets, Radio France Internationale (RFI) and France 24, for three months due to allegations of partiality in their reporting. This decision was made public in a statement released by the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication on Monday.
The suspension comes amid growing pressure on President Faure Gnassingbé from critics who oppose recent amendments to the constitution that could allow him to maintain power indefinitely. These constitutional changes have been labeled by critics as a "constitutional coup," raising concerns about democratic backsliding in Togo.
According to the statement issued by the regulatory authority, the measure to suspend the networks was taken following repeated failures in terms of impartiality, accuracy, and fact-checking in their news coverage. The statement specifically mentioned that several recent broadcasts contained inaccuracies, biases, and information that contradicted established facts, which it claimed undermined the stability of the nation’s republican institutions and tarnished the country’s image.
The regulatory body emphasized that "freedom of the press cannot be synonymous with disinformation or interference," highlighting the delicate balance between media freedom and responsible reporting.
In the wake of this media suspension, protests have been organized for the upcoming week. Demonstrations in Togo are typically rare as they have been effectively banned since 2022, following a violent incident at Lome’s main market. However, the widespread criticism regarding the government's recent structural changes has sparked renewed public dissent, which could lead to significant unrest.
Concern about the state of democracy in Togo is amplified by the prevailing instability and military takeovers in the Sahel region, affecting neighboring countries. The government's actions, including the suppression of foreign media and the proposed constitutional modifications, come at a time when citizens are increasingly demanding transparency and accountability from their leaders.
The suspension of RFI and France 24 highlights the tension between the Togolese government and foreign media, as well as the broader struggles facing journalists in regions experiencing democratic turmoil. The outcome of the upcoming protests will likely reflect the public’s resolve to confront these challenges and demand greater freedoms.
