Togo journalist's judicial control challenged
The Union of African Free Press Journalists demands an end to restrictions on veteran reporter Apollinaire Mèwènèmesse K.
The Union of African Free Press Journalists (UJPLA) is calling on Togolese judicial authorities to lift the judicial control placed on journalist Apollinaire Mèwènèmesse K. The 73-year-old director of La Dépêche has been subject to these restrictions for over two and a half years following an article published in February 2024.
UJPLA stated that the prolonged measures disproportionately affect the journalist's individual liberty and professional activity. The union emphasized that while journalists are not above the law, judicial proceedings against them must uphold fairness, proportionality, and the presumption of innocence.
The organization urged the courts to re-examine the case and lift the judicial control unless a legal and proportionate necessity justifies its continuation. UJPLA highlighted the importance of protecting press freedom and the public's right to information.
Why it mattersVeteran Togolese journalist Apollinaire Mèwènèmesse K. faces ongoing judicial restrictions impacting his freedom of movement and professional work.