Human Rights Day: MMLK urges release of political prisoners for national reconciliation

On the occasion of the International Human Rights Day, commemorated every December 10, the Martin Luther King Movement (MMLK) has launched a solemn appeal to the President of the Republic, His Excellency Faure Essozimna GNASSINGBÉ, and the Togolese authorities. In a poignant communiqué, the movement calls for the release of prisoners related to the August 2017 demonstrations and other cases with political connotations, an initiative he considers essential for peace and national reconciliation.

A plea for unity and justice

For the MMLK, this symbolic measure at the end of 2024 would send a powerful message: that of a Togo turned towards the future and reconciled with itself. "Such a gesture would be a mark of political courage and a major step towards national unity", the press release stresses.

The movement echoes the recommendations of the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission (CVJR), stressing that the "White Paper" remains a key document for healing the wounds of the past and building a cohesive future. "Togo Chéri, l'Or de l'Humanité", the dream of the founding fathers, must finally become a reality, the MMLK insists.

Fundamental rights still flouted

This world day is also an opportunity for the MMLK to denounce the persistent shortcomings in the guarantee of fundamental rights in Togo. The movement points the finger at violations of the right to life, education and health, as well as public freedoms, which it considers to be severely hampered.

In addition, the movement is calling for the lifting of restrictions on public freedoms, believing that these hindrances contribute to weakening the national democratic fabric.

A call to compassion and responsibility
In its message, the MMLK places the human dimension at the heart of its plea. "Fostering peace and consolation in all Togolese families" is an absolute priority, especially at the end of the year, when hope and solidarity must prevail.

With this declaration, the MMLK invites the authorities to show compassion and responsibility, in order to transform this symbolic day into a historic turning point for Togo.

Togo, faced with its history, has the opportunity to reinvent itself. It remains to be seen whether this appeal will be heard, and whether this International Human Rights Day will mark the start of a new national momentum.

The defender