On the case of Abdoul Aziz Goma, arbitrarily detained in Togo

B100382/2025

Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the case of Abdoul Aziz Goma, arbitrarily detained in Togo

(2025/2862(RSP))

The European Parliament,

– having regard to its previous resolutions on Togo,

– having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948,

– having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights of 1966, to which Togo is a party,

– having regard to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights,

– having regard to Rule 144 of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas Abdoul Aziz Goma, a Togolese citizen and civil society actor, was arrested and remains in detention without respect for due process guarantees;

B. whereas credible reports point to arbitrary detention and serious violations of his fundamental rights;

C. whereas the rule of law and judicial independence are essential for stability and democratic governance in Togo;

D. whereas the European Union and Togo are linked by partnership agreements based on respect for human rights and the rule of law;

E. whereas arbitrary detention of individuals, particularly those active in civil society, undermines public trust in institutions and aggravates political tensions;

F. whereas a stable and democratic Togo is essential for regional security in West Africa, especially given the fragile security environment in neighbouring states;

1. Condemns the arbitrary detention of Abdoul Aziz Goma and the lack of due process in his case;

2. Calls for his immediate release and for the Togolese authorities to restore his full rights under the law;

3. Urges the Togolese government to guarantee respect for the rule of law, including fair trial standards, access to legal counsel, and protection from inhumane treatment;

4. Reminds Togo of its obligations under international and regional agreements, and under its own constitution, to safeguard citizens’ rights and freedoms;

5. Stresses that arbitrary arrests damage the country’s reputation and deter international investment and cooperation;

6. Calls on the European Union and its Member States to use diplomatic channels to press for the resolution of this case and to support efforts to strengthen judicial independence and the rule of law in Togo;

7. Underlines that EU engagement with Togo should be based on clear benchmarks regarding respect for human rights, judicial accountability, and political freedoms;

8. Calls on the EU Delegation in Lomé to follow this case closely, maintain contact with Mr Goma’s representatives, and report regularly to Parliament on developments;

9. Urges regional organisations, including ECOWAS and the African Union, to play a constructive role in encouraging the Togolese authorities to uphold their obligations and prevent further deterioration of civic space;

10. Expresses solidarity with Togolese citizens who peacefully exercise their right to freedom of expression and assembly, and rejects any form of intimidation against them;

11. Reiterates that the stability of Togo depends on accountable governance, independent institutions, and respect for fundamental rights;

12. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the institutions of the African Union and ECOWAS, and the Government and Parliament of Togo.