Togolese Opposition Leader Jailed For Two Years

A Togo opposition leader has been imprisoned for two years after making remarks critical of President Faure Gnassingbe, his lawyer and a judicial source said on Wednesday.

president of the Front for Patriots of Democracy (FPD) party and a former communications minister, Djimon Ore, was detained last month at his home in the capital Lome.

His arrest stirred anger among opposition leaders and civil groups in Togo who said dissidents were no longer allowed to speak out under Gnassingbe who has been in power since 2005.

Rights groups have repeatedly criticised Togo since Gnassingbe came to power after his father died following 38 years ruling the country.