The announcement was made late Monday by the High Authority for Audiovisual and Communication (HAAC), the country's media regulator.
According to HAAC, the decision follows 'repeated failings' by both outlets, which allegedly aired biased and factually incorrect content that 'undermines the stability of republican institutions and the country's image.'
While the authority did not cite specific broadcasts, it stated that the measure was necessary to counter disinformation and interference, emphasising that freedom of the press 'cannot be synonymous with disinformation.'
The suspension comes amid mounting political tensions in the West African nation, where President Faure Gnassingbé has faced growing opposition following constitutional changes approved in May.
The changes created a new position, President of the Council of Ministers, held by Gnassingbé with no term limits, a move critics have labelled a "constitutional coup" aimed at extending his rule indefinitely.
RFI and France 24 have been reporting on protests organised by opposition parties and civil society groups in response to the controversial reforms.
In a joint statement, the two broadcasters said they were "surprised" by the decision and reaffirmed their "unwavering commitment to the ethical principles of journalism," expressing readiness to engage with Togolese authorities to clarify any concerns.
Since 2022, public demonstrations have been officially banned in Togo, following a deadly explosion at a market in Lomé. However, political tensions have continued to simmer, with critics accusing the government of stifling dissent.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/togo-suspends-french-broadcasters-rfi-and-france-24
