Togolese rapper and activist Aamron was released on June 21 after spending nearly a month in involuntary psychiatric detention at Zébé Hospital in Aného, following his arrest on May 26. His confinement triggered a wave of protests, online campaigns, and condemnation from civil society groups, who accused the government of misusing mental health facilities to suppress dissent. Aamron, whose real name has not been made public, is widely known in Togo for his politically charged lyrics that criticize government corruption, authoritarianism, and restrictions on free speech. His sudden arrest came just days after he posted a video denouncing the country’s controversial new constitution, which many view as a way for President Faure Gnassingbé to further consolidate power.
Authorities claimed Aamron was suffering from a psychological disorder, a justification human rights groups say has been used to silence outspoken activists. According to multiple witnesses, he was arrested without a warrant and transported to Zébé Hospital under police supervision, raising alarm over due process violations. Following growing pressure from local NGOs, international human rights organizations, fellow artists, and opposition politicians, Aamron’s legal team filed a petition demanding his immediate release and an independent medical evaluation. Demonstrations in Lomé and other cities, including a protest concert, called attention to what critics have labeled a dangerous precedent for weaponizing psychiatry against dissidents.
His release was confirmed on Friday by Togo’s Ministry of Health, but no official explanation was provided for the decision or the nature of his detention. Aamron has since issued a brief statement via his legal team thanking supporters and pledging to continue speaking out through his music. Civil society organizations, including the Togolese League for Human Rights (LTDH) and Amnesty International, are now demanding a transparent investigation into the incident and institutional reforms to safeguard civil liberties.
“This case reveals serious gaps in our legal and mental health systems,” said Komi Atitso, a legal advocate in Lomé. “Psychiatric institutions should never become tools of political repression.” Togo has faced increasing criticism over its record on freedom of expression, especially ahead of the 2025 presidential elections, amid opposition calls for democratic reforms and a rollback of recent constitutional changes. Observers say Aamron’s case may mark a turning point in how civil liberties are contested in Togo, with artists and activists vowing to resist any further crackdown on dissent.
