The Togolese government has suspended the broadcasts of French international news outlets RFI and France 24 for three months, citing concerns over what it described as a lack of impartiality and journalistic rigour.
The country’s communications authority accused both broadcasters of airing inaccurate and tendentious content that allegedly undermines national stability and tarnishes Togo’s image.
The move comes amid growing political tension following President Faure Gnassingbé’s assumption of a powerful new role as President of the Council of Ministers—a position without term limits.
Opposition parties, including the Democratic Forces for the Republic and the National Alliance for Change, have condemned the constitutional change as a “coup” aimed at extending Gnassingbé’s rule indefinitely.
RFI and France 24 have been reporting on protests against the new constitution and opposition criticism, which the government claims contributed to the suspension.
In response, both media outlets issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to journalistic standards and expressed willingness to clarify any issues with the Togolese authorities.
