Concern is growing in Togo as a hunger strike by political detainees at Lomé Civil Prison has expanded to 39 participants, according to a statement issued on December 17 by Togo Rights & Freedom Network – UK. Two more detainees, Dina Massahoudou and socially engaged artist Wattara Fadel, have joined the protest.
Fadel reportedly announced his participation from his hospital bed at Sylvanus Olympio University Hospital, where he is receiving treatment. The organization describes the situation as a “serious humanitarian and political crisis,” noting that some detainees have refused food for more than 34 days, with reports of severe weight loss, fainting, and cardiac complications.
Despite worsening health conditions, the hunger strikers maintain what the group calls “clear and non-negotiable” demands, including the release of political prisoners, respect for court decisions, enforcement of human rights protections, and access to independent medical care.
The statement warns of alleged obstacles to medical treatment, including delayed hospital transfers and pressure on detainees to end the strike, raising concerns over the right to health and life. It urges Togolese authorities to ensure immediate medical access and address what it describes as arbitrary detentions.
International bodies, including the United Nations and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, are also called upon to intervene. Last month, UN Special Rapporteur Mary Lawlor urged authorities to protect the detainees’ health, but the government has yet to announce concrete measures. While President Faure Gnassingbé recently mentioned possible clemency for elderly or ill prisoners, no action linked to the hunger strike has been confirmed.
Hunger strike by Togo detainees swells to 39, rights group warns
