Press Release from the Togolese Government
In response to the escalating violence that has marred the progress of the national elite football championship in Togo, the Minister of Security and Civil Protection, Yark Damehane, held a crucial meeting last week with the presidents of Togo’s clubs and leagues, along with members of the Togolese Football Federation. This gathering comes in the wake of persistent incidents disrupting the Togolese championship.
Minister Damehane, in collaboration with the Minister of Sports and Recreation, announced the government’s commitment to addressing the issue by taking firm actions against those responsible for the disturbances. A joint press release from the Ministers of Security and Civil Protection and Sports and Leisure emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Notwithstanding the administrative sanctions often issued in these circumstances by sports federations, the government intends to initiate legal proceedings in the future against any alleged instigator, author, or accomplice of acts of violence in sports venues.”
The press release expressed concern over the recent incidents, highlighting the harm caused to public order, tranquility, and the physical integrity of individuals, as well as damages to public and private property. It underscored the impact on the security personnel assigned to matches, who have become collateral victims of these violent acts.
While condemning these acts of violence, the ministers emphasized the need to uphold the noble objectives of sports and maintain fair play on the field. The government, as the guarantor of public order and security, asserted its commitment to playing a sovereign role without interfering in the affairs of the Togolese Football Federation.
In a call for good citizenship and understanding, the Minister of Security and Civil Protection and the Minister of Sports and Recreation urged all stakeholders to contribute to protecting sports venues from the menace of violence.
Minister of Security and Civil Protection Colonel Yark Damehane
