Togo’s government has suspended France 24 and Radio France Internationale (RFI) for three months, citing “biased and destabilizing” reporting. The decision, which came into effect on June 16, has drawn sharp criticism from press freedom groups and opposition figures. The ban arrives amidst rising tensions following the controversial April constitutional reform that extended President Faure Gnassingbé’s rule without a direct vote. Amnesty International and other NGOs have expressed concern over the crackdown on civil liberties, especially as pro-democracy activists plan nationwide protests starting June 23. Several journalists have been detained or interrogated in recent weeks. The Togolese government argues that it is protecting national stability, but critics fear a slide into authoritarianism. Street protests, previously suppressed by force, could erupt again in the coming days.
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