The Union des Journalistes de la Presse Libre Africaine (UJPLA) has expressed deep concern over the prolonged judicial control imposed on Togolese journalist Apollinaire Mèwènèmesse K., director of publication of the weekly La Dépêche. According to reports, Mèwènèmesse has been under judicial control for over two and a half years, following an article published in February 2024. This situation has raised serious questions about the respect for fundamental liberties and the protection of media professionals in the exercise of their profession.
The UJPLA has denounced and condemned any measure that disproportionately infringes on the individual freedom of a journalist. While press freedom should not exempt journalists from the law, any judicial proceedings against them must respect the principles of fairness, proportionality, presumption of innocence, and respect for defense rights. The union emphasizes that journalism is a cornerstone of any democratic society, and journalists must be able to investigate, publish information, and practice their profession without undue pressure, intimidation, or unjustified restrictions.
The UJPLA is particularly concerned about the prolonged restrictions on Mèwènèmesse, which have significant implications for his personal freedom and professional activity. The union has called on Togolese judicial authorities to re-examine Mèwènèmesse's situation and lift his judicial control if no legitimate and proportionate necessity justifies its continuation. The UJPLA also urges the authorities to guarantee respect for press freedom, freedom of expression, and fundamental rights of all media professionals.
The UJPLA has made several demands, including a call to the Haute Autorité de Régulation de la Communication Écrite, Audiovisuelle et Numérique (HARC) to pay close attention to this case and contribute to protecting journalists' rights within its purview. The union has also invited national, African, and international organizations defending press freedom to closely monitor the evolution of this case and has called for an end to any form of judicial harassment or disproportionate restrictions that might hinder journalists' work in Togo.
According to UJPLA President YAO Noël, the credibility of judicial institutions and regulatory bodies relies on their ability to guarantee public liberties and protect citizens' rights without discrimination. The case of Mèwènèmesse K. Apollinaire is not just about one journalist; it raises fundamental questions about the place of press freedom in a democratic society, particularly when the exercise of the journalistic profession leads to prolonged restrictions on individual liberty.
The UJPLA emphasizes that press freedom is not a favor granted to journalists but a fundamental right that guarantees every citizen's right to be informed. The union is urging Togolese authorities to prioritize an outcome that aligns with the principles of the rule of law and Togo's international commitments on human rights and freedom of expression.
The situation of Mèwènèmesse K. Apollinaire has been ongoing for over two years, and the UJPLA's concerns highlight the need for a prompt and in-depth examination by the competent authorities. The union's demands and calls for action underscore the importance of protecting journalists' rights and ensuring that press freedom is respected in Togo.
Key points
- The UJPLA demands the lifting of judicial control on journalist Apollinaire Mèwènèmesse, citing concerns over press freedom and fundamental liberties.
- The union urges Togolese authorities to guarantee respect for press freedom, freedom of expression, and fundamental rights of all media professionals.
- The case of Mèwènèmesse K. Apollinaire raises fundamental questions about the place of press freedom in a democratic society.
