Amnesty International has called on Togolese authorities to investigate allegations of torture and ill-treatment against protesters arrested during early June demonstrations. The organization is also demanding an end to the repression of dissent and greater respect for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
Dozens of protesters were arrested on June 5 and 6 in Lomé as they rallied against rising living costs, controversial constitutional reforms, and what many see as President Faure Gnassingbé’s attempt to extend his hold on power indefinitely.
In total 56 detainees were released on June 9, but three remain in custody as of June 17, according to multiple sources cited by Amnesty International.
During detention, many demonstrators were subjected to torture or other ill-treatment, Amnesty says, citing interviews and medical certificates.
“These Togolese protesters are being harshly punished simply for expressing their opinions,” said Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty’s Acting Regional Director for West and Central Africa.
“By banning and violently repressing demonstrations, the authorities are violating international law.”
Testimonies detail detainees being beaten with cords, forced to run on gravel, and made to dance in the rain or sing into megaphones. Some were reportedly threatened or coerced into signing documents.
“This is not the first time arrested protesters have reported torture or other ill-treatment in Togo,” said Fabien Offner, a researcher with Amnesty.
“We are calling for a prompt, impartial, independent, and effective investigation into these allegations.”
Medical reports confirmed bruises to the lower back and thighs. One victim said she still suffers pain days after her release, while another claimed to have received threats after speaking out online.
Amnesty warned that several Togolese laws cited in official statements are inconsistent with international human rights standards
Amnesty International urges investigation into torture allegations in Togo
