LOME, Togo (AP) — Authorities in Togo have repressed the media and prevented civilians from gathering to protest peacefully, Amnesty International said in a report published Wednesday, ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled to take place at the end of this month.
Amnesty International said in its annual report on human rights around the world that two newspapers in Togo were forced to close for several months last year, while a number of journalists were arrested or hit with hefty fines after reporting on corruption.
Two journalists in Togo were sentenced to three years in prison after reporting about a minister’s involvement in corruption, but both fled the country to avoid detention. The human rights organization said it had recorded instances in which detainees in prison were tortured or mistreated.
The report comes at a time of heightened tension in Togo, a country of about 8 million people that has been ruled by the same family for almost 60 years. Parliamentary elections have been pushed back until April 29, and the government have arrested opposition figures and quashed efforts to organize protests ahead of the vote.
How US changes to 'noncompete' agreements and overtime pay could affect workers
China's innovative drugs gain momentum in global expansion efforts
Wealthy New Yorkers are ditching idyllic Manhattan townhouses for doorman
China ready to unleash growth potential
China's rural policy bank to increase financial support for rural revitalization
China targets economic growth of around 5 pct in 2024
Feature: Australian winemaker excited about re
Judge declines to dismiss lawsuits filed against rapper Travis Scott over deadly Astroworld concert
Xiangjiang New Area of China's Hunan actively cultivates new quality productive forces