Keypoints:
- Togo suspends France 24 and RFI broadcasts for three months
- Authorities allege biased coverage of constitutional protests
- Move signals rising crackdown on media in West Africa
TOGO has suspended the broadcasts of French state-funded international news outlets France 24 and Radio France Internationale (RFI) for three months, citing what authorities called a lack of impartiality and factual accuracy. The decision, announced on June 16 by the country’s media regulator, comes amid escalating political tensions surrounding recent constitutional reforms.
The High Authority for Audiovisual and Communication (HAAC) accused the broadcasters of airing ‘inaccurate, tendentious and even factually incorrect statements’ that it said undermined the stability of the republic and damaged Togo’s international image.
According to Reuters, both outlets had been closely covering opposition-led protests against a controversial constitutional change that granted President Faure Gnassingbé a powerful new role—President of the Council of Ministers—with no term limit.
Opposition cries foul as president expands power
Gnassingbé, who has ruled Togo since 2005 following the death of his father, was handed the new post in May. Critics argue the change amounts to a ‘constitutional coup’ that could extend his presidency for life.
Two opposition parties—the Democratic Forces for the Republic and the National Alliance for Change—have condemned the reform and led a series of demonstrations, which have received significant international media coverage, including by France 24 and RFI.
French media respond with defiance and dialogue
In a joint statement, France Médias Monde, the parent company of both broadcasters, defended its journalists and reaffirmed its commitment to editorial independence and factual reporting. The organisation said it was open to discussing the matter with Togolese authorities in an effort to resolve the dispute.
Media freedom advocates fear that the suspension is yet another attempt by West African governments to silence independent reporting amid political unrest.
Press freedom under pressure in West Africa
Togo’s decision echoes recent media crackdowns in other francophone African countries, including Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso—nations that have similarly suspended foreign media outlets, especially those perceived as aligned with France.
Observers note that these moves often occur against the backdrop of mounting anti-French sentiment and efforts by entrenched regimes to tighten control over public narratives. Analysts suggest Togo’s action may be part of a broader pattern of authoritarian drift in the region.
Togo ranks 91st out of 180 in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, with a steadily deteriorating record on media rights. Independent journalists in the country routinely face surveillance, harassment, and bureaucratic obstacles.
A chilling message to critical voices
The lack of specificity in HAAC’s accusations has drawn concern from international media watchdogs, who argue the suspension sets a dangerous precedent. No detailed examples of biased or incorrect reporting were cited in the regulator’s statement.
‘This move sends a clear message that critical reporting—particularly by international media—will not be tolerated when it challenges the state’s narrative,’ said one West Africa-based media analyst.
France Médias Monde’s offer to engage in dialogue remains on the table, but it is unclear whether Togo’s authorities will accept. The suspension is due to last three months but could be extended or revoked depending on the outcome of those discussions.
In the meantime, Togo risks joining a growing list of countries where media pluralism is not just restricted—it is being actively dismantled.
