The Movement Martin Luther King - La Voix des Sans Voix (MMLK) has expressed mixed emotions over the recent decision by Togo's Minister of Communication and Media, Yawa Kouigan. In a circular dated September 18, 2026, the minister ordered audiovisual distributors, including New World TV and Canal+, to comply with Article 36 of the 2019 law, making access to public TV and radio services free. The MMLK has welcomed this decision, calling it courageous and in line with the law.
The MMLK has been vocal about its stance on the issue, highlighting that it is unacceptable for the Togolese people to be charged for accessing public media services financed by their taxes. The organization has demanded that the High Authority of Audiovisual and Communication (HAAC) impose sanctions on distributors who fail to comply with the law by October 18, 2026. According to the MMLK, this is a serious violation of consumer rights.
However, the MMLK has also expressed strong condemnation over the removal of TF1 channels from the Canal+ bouquet. The organization argues that removing five major channels, including TF1, TMC, TFX, TF1 Séries Films, and LCI, without reducing the subscription price is a breach of contract. The MMLK has criticized the silence of subscribers who continue to pay for a service that has been reduced.
The MMLK has put forth two demands: a 50% reduction in subscription prices until the TF1 channels are restored, or an immediate restoration of the channels. The organization has called on consumers to join them in demanding respect for the law through an operation dubbed "NON À L'ANARQUE BOUQUET CANAL PLUS". This move is aimed at pressuring Canal+ to reconsider its decision.
The controversy surrounding the removal of TF1 channels from Canal+ has sparked debate in Togo. The MMLK has urged consumers to be vigilant and demand fair treatment from service providers. According to the organization, it is essential to protect consumer rights in the face of arbitrary decisions by distributors.
The HAAC has been urged to take a firm stance on the matter and enforce the law. The MMLK has emphasized that sanctions must be imposed on distributors who fail to comply with the regulations. This will ensure that consumers are not taken advantage of and that their rights are respected.
The situation remains tense as consumers await a response from Canal+ and the HAAC. The MMLK has vowed to continue advocating for consumer rights and pushing for a resolution to the crisis. The organization's president, Pastor Edoh Komi, has taken to social media to mobilize support for the cause.
Key points
- The MMLK demands a 50% reduction in Canal+ subscription prices or the restoration of TF1 channels.
- The organization criticizes the removal of TF1 channels from Canal+ as a breach of contract.
- The HAAC has been urged to impose sanctions on distributors who fail to comply with the law.
