The Catholic Bishops in Togo condemned the violent arrest of opposition leader Agbeyome Kodjo and called for respect for citizens’ rights. The bishops highlighted the growing political violence since 2017, urging the government to exercise restraint. They also criticized the government’s interference with church leaders trying to support detainees, emphasizing the need for a political solution that honors human rights.
The Catholic Bishops of Togo expressed concern over the recent arrest of opposition leader Agbeyome Kodjo, describing the violent methods used by government security forces during the incident. Kodjo was apprehended at his home after security agents forced entry, reflecting escalating tensions in Togo’s political landscape. The bishops condemned the brutal actions and highlighted the need for respect for citizens’ rights.
Agbeyome Kodjo, leader of the Patriotic Movement for Democracy and Development, previously placed second in the controversial February 2020 presidential elections. The incumbent President Faure Gnassingbé, who has held power since 2005 following his father’s long rule, was proclaimed the election winner. Security sources indicate that his detention was linked to allegations regarding his failure to report to state authorities.
In their statement, the Bishops criticized the obstruction faced by Archbishop Nicodème Barrigah-Benissan and former Archbishop Denis Amuzu-Dzakpah, who were reportedly denied access to Archbishop emeritus Philippe Fanoko Kpodzro during the arrest. The 90-year-old Kpodzro has been a prominent critic of President Faure and faced house arrest earlier this year for advocating protests following the elections.
Since 2017, Togo has seen rising political violence. The Bishops have called for a political resolution that upholds citizens’ fundamental rights, stressing the importance of non-violent civic expression. They denounced the physical violence and degrading treatment against citizens, urging the government to practice restraint and recognize the rights of its people.
In summary, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Togo has raised alarms about the continued rise of violence against civilians and calls for a political solution that respects human rights. Their appeal seeks to mitigate tensions arising from political struggles and emphasizes the critical need for citizens to express dissent against oppression while reaffirming their inherent rights.
The political climate in Togo has been marked by instability and violence, particularly since 2017, with increasing tensions stemming from contested elections and government crackdowns on dissent. The Catholic Church has historically played an advocacy role in promoting human rights and political dialogue in Togo, often intervening in critical moments to call for respect for fundamental freedoms. The current situation highlights the fragile state of democracy and governance in the country, underscoring the importance of enforcing legal and civil rights even amid political strife.
The Togo Bishops’ condemnation of violence against opposition figures and their call for a respect for human rights underscores the persistent challenges facing Togo’s political system. Their appeal for restraint from government authorities and maintenance of democratic values reflects wider concerns over human rights in the region. Continuing dialogue and respect for citizens’ rights remain crucial to achieving political stability.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
