SECTOR 4 Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 2.9 4.2 The standard of reporting follows the basic principles of accuracy and fairness. The Togolese media have been facing a real crisis of trust and credibility in recent years. In the words of one panelist: “I don’t believe our media any more, and I haven’t done so for the past 7-8 years”. Reference was made to completely fabricated stories (e.g. the alleged construction of a mansion worth FCFA 75 million [US$ 150 000] by Patcha Gnassingbé). In relatively less serious cases, journalists rely on half-truths and hearsay. “Our journalists often write on the basis of rumors that they do not verify.” As a result, it is often difficult for defense lawyers to plead their case in court. Panelists gave many explanations for this state of affairs. On the professional level, the lack of training seems to be the main problem. “Some journalists do not know that they must verify and balance information.” The problem is compounded by the unbridled pursuit of scoops and the lure of financial gain. Some sources of information take advantage of journalists’ poor working conditions – in particular the fact that they are not being paid decent wages – to manipulate them by granting them per diems and other more or less acceptable rewards. Referring to a case currently before the courts, a panelist noted that the complainant himself had been the one who manipulated the journalist against whom he was now bringing a charge. Another panelist recalled the case of a woman who had made a journalist believe she was married to the head of state although there was absolutely no truth to her story. Another explanation for the violation of the basic principles of accuracy and impartiality lies in the difficulties faced by journalists when trying to double-check information. Information is a perishable commodity and journalists do not always AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER TOGO 2010 123