(RSF/IFEX) – Telephone, Internet and fax communications in Togo have become increasingly difficult since 22 April 2005, making it virtually impossible for local and international media to work effectively. Jacques Djakouti, president of the Union of Free Radio and Television Stations (URATEL), told RSF that telecommunications had been virtually blocked in the country since the […]
(RSF/IFEX) – Telephone, Internet and fax communications in Togo have become increasingly difficult since 22 April 2005, making it virtually impossible for local and international media to work effectively. Jacques Djakouti, president of the Union of Free Radio and Television Stations (URATEL), told RSF that telecommunications had been virtually blocked in the country since the 24 April presidential election.
On the night of 24 April, Thierry Tchukriel, a journalist with Rd’Autan radio station, was detained and beaten up by Tongolese soldiers. His identity papers, including his press card, were also confiscated. The French consul in Togo said an embassy doctor had examined the journalist and seen his injuries. Tchukriel was badly shaken after being beaten on the neck and head by four soldiers as he covered the vote-counting at an election office near the Lomé market.
According to Rd’Autan Radio Board Chair René Pagès, “Tensions rose from the moment the vote-counting got underway and the situation rapidly deteriorated. Thierry Tchukriel was struck on the head and thrown to the ground. His belt was taken. His passport, press card and camera were confiscated. Wishing to file a complaint, he went to the [French] consulate, but officials were unable to locate a police commissioner.” Tchukriel had gone to Lomé on 19 April to cover the presidential election.
In another incident, on 25 April, La Paix radio station was ransacked and burned to the ground in Atakpamé, central Togo. The station, launched in 2002, supported the government. It became the latest victim of the tense post-electoral climate in Atakpamé, where police clashed with young anti-government demonstrators.
