VP/HR — Arrest of demonstrators in Togo

30.5.2016

Question for written answer E-004329-16
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Alessandra Mussolini (PPE)

At the beginning of April, two men were arrested in Dapaong, in the north of Togo, charged with having started a debate on the commemoration of the country’s independence and having demonstrated against the killings which occurred during the demonstrations in Mango in November 2015.

Apparently the prisoners — who face the possibility of five years’ imprisonment and a fine of 20 million francs — have been denied legal assistance.

The security forces are reported to have responded with violence to the demonstrations held when their arrest became known, using tear gas and truncheons.

1. Is the VP/HR aware of the situation described?

2. Will she take diplomatic action to persuade the local authorities of the need to ensure that the national security forces use their powers in a way which fully respects citizens’ human rights?