Archive · 17 Jun 2025
Togo Suspends RFI, France 24 for Bias Claims Amid Political Tension
Togo has temporarily stopped broadcasts from two French news sources, RFI and France 24, for three months.
The government says the news sources haven't been fair in their reporting.
This is happening while there are tensions over recent changes in the country's rules.
Some people are worried these changes might let the leader stay in power longer.
The news sources say they follow good reporting rules and will try to fix any misunderstandings.
Togo suspended RFI and France 24 broadcasts for three months.
The communications authority cited lack of impartiality and rigor.
The suspension follows the coverage of opposition protests.
Opposition parties called the move a "constitutional coup".
RFI and France 24 reaffirmed commitment to journalistic principles.
- Who
- Togolese government and French broadcasters RFI and France 24.
- What
- Togo suspended broadcasts of RFI and France 24.
- When
- Announced on Monday.
- Where
- Togo
- Why
- Due to lack of impartiality and rigor in reporting, according to the government.
Government Stance
Media/Critics Stance
Reporting Impartiality
Government Stance
The government perceives the broadcasts as relaying inaccurate, tendentious and even factually incorrect statements.
Media/Critics Stance
The broadcasters might have reported facts that the government deems unfavorable, influencing public perception.
Freedom of Press vs. Information
Government Stance
The government's decision to suspend the media outlets has been made to protect the image of the country and stability of republican institutions.
Media/Critics Stance
Media outlets may argue that their reporting is within the bounds of free press, even if critical.
Constitutional Changes
Government Stance
The recent constitutional changes are a necessary step to the governance.
Media/Critics Stance
Critics say this is due to recent changes in the constitution that could effectively keep the president in power indefinitely.
- Action
- Suspension of broadcasts
- Affected Media
- RFI, France 24
- Duration
- Three months
- Reason
- Lack of impartiality and rigor
- Opposition Stance
- Called the move a "constitutional coup"
