It was on Wednesday, September 27th that Djovi Gally, the former Minister of Human Rights during the transition period, passed away in Germany while receiving medical treatment. Messages of condolences and tributes are being received from all sides, in recognition of his legacy as a remarkable statesman.
Three decades ago, Djovi Gally dedicated himself to the promotion of human rights and freedoms. A highly active advocate, he conducted periodic conferences at French and American cultural centers, addressing issues related to human rights.
Me Djovi Gally was at the forefront of Togo’s democratic struggles, serving as a stalwart member of various associations and presiding over the Association for the Promotion of the Rule of Law and Democracy (Aped).
In 1991, he was part of the opposition delegation that negotiated the agreements leading to the Sovereign National Conference on June 12th, during which he assumed the role of Minister of Human Rights and Democracy Promotion. His mark on history includes being one of the drafters of the constitution that was adopted in 1992.
In 1990, Me Djovi Gally founded the Pan-African Observatory for Democracy, alongside several African leaders, including former Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade. In 2016, he was awarded the Legion of Honour in France for his tireless advocacy.
With close ties to former Prime Minister Edem Kodjo and subsequent involvement in the Union of Forces for Change led by Gilchrist Olympio, Me Djovi Gally tirelessly championed political change throughout his life. Regrettably, he did not witness the political transition he had ardently fought for as he passed away on Wednesday evening, just days shy of his 68th birthday.