Togo’s media regulator, the High Authority for Audiovisual and Communications (HAAC), is accused of cracking down on press freedom following a warning issued to Radio France Internationale (RFI).
The broadcaster faces suspension if it continues “unbalanced” reporting and spreading “fake news” according to the government.
This comes amidst heightened political tensions after lawmakers passed a controversial constitutional reform.
Opposition parties claim the changes, which switch Togo from a presidential to a parliamentary system, are a ploy by President Faure Gnassingbe to extend his rule.
The HAAC accuses RFI of ignoring calls for neutral coverage, particularly regarding the recent elections and the overall situation in Togo. They claim “repeated errors” damage the country’s image and violate journalistic principles.
If violations persist, the HAAC threatens to suspend RFI’s broadcasting rights within Togo.
This move follows the expulsion of French journalist Thomas Dietrich, known for criticizing the Togolese government, shortly before the elections.
The new constitution weakens the presidency, making it a ceremonial role elected by parliament.
Real power shifts to the prime minister-like position of President of the Council of Ministers. Notably, the leader of the party with the most parliamentary seats takes this role.
Gnassingbe’s ruling party, UNIR, holds a commanding majority after winning 108 out of 113 seats in April.
Critics see this as a deliberate maneuver to circumvent term limits. Under the previous system, Gnassingbe could only run for president once more.
The reform allows him to hold the prime minister position every six years as long as his party maintains control of parliament.
This is seen by many as an “institutional coup” designed to solidify Gnassingbe’s grip on power and extend his family’s 50-year political dynasty. Gnassingbe, 57, has already won four elections, all marred by accusations of unfairness from the opposition.
His father, who also ruled Togo for nearly four decades after a military coup, first appointed him president following his death in 2005.
