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.
Meta more than doubles Q1 profit but revenue guidance pulls shares down after
Domestic Brands Attract Young Consumers
Governments Introduce Range of Measures to Support Child Care
Pakistan and Iran vow to enhance efforts at a 'united front' against Afghanistan
Chinese Enjoy Labor Day Holiday from Doorstep amid Epidemic Control
Victims of China Plane Crash Mourned
Interview: China to Unveil Timely Measures to Stabilize Employment: Official
The family of imprisoned Belarusian opposition figure hasn't heard from her for over 400 days
Highlights of Closing Ceremony of Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games