SECTOR 2 2.3 The editorial independence of print media published by a public authority is protected adequately against undue political interference. The editorial independence of the public print media is not sufficiently guaranteed. Journalists working for the national daily Togo Presse, offer to write articles, but the chief editor frequently blocks their publication. The director of Editogo has been working in the company for 20 years and should be entitled to retire. According to the panel, he is maintained in his position because he is on good terms with the authorities, who issued instructions that he should be among those who were appointed in the company. Political interference does not always come from public authorities. One panel member is of the opinion that neither the Minister of Communication nor the Head of State would try to interfere, but it is careerist officials who think they have a right and duty to make a phone call to the author of a “non-compliant” publication and remonstrate with him. 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: 82 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER TOGO 2017 2.7 (2013 = 1.6; 2010 = 1.1)