As Cameroon moves closer to its presidential election on 12 October, political tensions are rising.
Amnesty International has renewed its demand for the release of 36 activists from the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) who have spent five years in detention following peaceful protests.
The organisation insists their conviction by a military tribunal runs contrary to the country’s international commitments.
The case has reignited criticism of what many see as a repressive atmosphere surrounding the upcoming vote.
On 22 September 2020, more than 500 protesters were arrested in several cities during demonstrations organised by the MRC, the opposition party led by Maurice Kamto. While most detainees were later freed, 36 activists remain in Kondengui prison in Yaoundé.
They were sentenced by a military court to between five and seven years on charges of “rebellion” and “attempted insurrection.”
Amnesty International has repeatedly condemned the trial of civilians by military tribunals, stressing that such practices violate Cameroon’s obligations under international treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human Rights.
The organisation maintains these activists “have committed no crime other than expressing their opinions.”
Their continued imprisonment was previously denounced by a United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in 2022, which described their trial before a military court as unlawful.
Earlier this month, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights also expressed concern over restrictions on civic freedoms in Cameroon, warning that voters may be unable to exercise their rights freely during the election.
Amnesty has also raised alarm over a new wave of arrests last August, when 54 MRC supporters were detained near the Constitutional Council. Though they were later released on bail, the organisation warned the incident reflected a dangerous tightening of political repression.
President Paul Biya, now 92, has ruled Cameroon for nearly 43 years and is seeking an eighth term in office. His main rival, Maurice Kamto, was barred from standing after his candidacy was rejected by the Constitutional Council, sparking fresh protests across the opposition.
In this fraught climate, Amnesty International is urging the government to free the 36 activists and uphold the fundamental rights of Cameroonian citizens. Whether the authorities will respond to mounting international pressure remains uncertain.
About The Author
