As Togo gears up for its upcoming national elections, concerns are mounting over the potential for internet shutdowns, which have been a recurrent issue under the current administration. Digital rights organizations are vigilantly monitoring the situation, calling on Togo’s government to ensure open and unhindered internet access. These calls come in light of past instances where the government restricted internet services during key political events, such as the pro-democracy protests in 2017 and the presidential elections in 2020. The continuity of these practices threatens the transparency and fairness of the elections, as well as the democratic process itself.
President Faure Gnassingbe, who has been in power since 2005 following the death of his father who ruled for 38 years, is seeking re-election. His long tenure and the historical context of his family’s rule, now spanning nearly seven decades, add a layer of complexity to the upcoming elections. The previous internet shutdowns under his rule have been criticized for stifling political dissent and limiting public access to information during critical times, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Digital rights expert Felicia Anthonio, representing the non-profit Access Now, emphasized the importance of keeping the internet operational before, during, and after the elections. According to her and other advocates from over two dozen organizations, uninterrupted internet access is crucial for ensuring that citizens can participate fully in the electoral process. They argue that cutting off access undermines not only the fairness and credibility of the elections but also affects business operations negatively.
The issue of internet shutdowns is not unique to Togo but is a common challenge across the African continent. For instance, the government of Senegal recently restricted internet access ahead of elections, and Chad experienced disruptions following a security incident. These instances highlight a broader pattern of governmental control over digital communications during politically sensitive periods. The collective call by digital rights organizations to the Togolese government is part of a larger effort to uphold digital rights and maintain open communication channels during electoral processes worldwide.
