Politics
Douala, Cameroon — The arrest of Junior NGOMBE, a 20-year-old activist, has ignited a wave of outrage across Cameroon and among the Cameroonian diaspora. Known as "Junior G32," NGOMBE was apprehended by security forces on July 24, 2024, in Douala and subsequently transferred to Yaoundé.
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The recent extradition of Cameroonian activist Steve Akam, also known as Ramon Cota, from Gabon to Cameroon has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, particularly from the diaspora community. A prominent Cameroonian living in the United States has fiercely criticized Gabon's transitional president, Brice Oligui Nguema, for what is seen as a gross violation of international asylum principles and a blatant act of political repression.
**A Long History of Persecution**
"This act of delivering an engaged citizen like Steve Akam reflects the cannibalistic and oppressive nature of the current regime," the Cameroonian expatriate declared. "It is part of a long-standing strategy to silence dissent through the instrumentalization of tribalism and ethno-expansionism, as well as the targeted redistribution of wealth through the dispossession of lands and resources."
The activist's arrest in Libreville and subsequent extradition to Yaoundé have been particularly controversial. Akam, a vocal critic of the Cameroonian government, was detained with the alleged complicity of the Cameroonian ambassador to Gabon. This move has drawn comparisons to historical precedents, where previous Gabonese leaders, such as Omar Bongo Ondimba, refrained from extraditing political opponents, opting instead for more diplomatic resolutions.
**A System of Oppression**
"This incident shows that the current regime spares no one in its pursuit of power," the critic continued. "Even those within the same tribal affiliations are not safe. Akam's only crime was demanding better governance, transparency, and basic utilities like water and electricity. For this, he was handed over to face tyranny in Cameroon."
The critic underscored that the Gabonese government under President Oligui Nguema has failed to uphold the longstanding tradition of protecting political refugees, a principle that was respected even by the most autocratic leaders. "Oligui Nguema lacks the spiritual and political depth required of a president," the expatriate argued. "His decision to extradite Akam shows a complete disregard for the credibility and honor of the Gabonese nation."
**Calls for Accountability**
The activist in the USA urged Cameroonians to seek accountability for this decision. "We need to know who in Cameroon orchestrated this extradition. Was it the Cameroonian ambassador to Gabon? Was it someone high up in the security or intelligence community? President Paul Biya has never shown a preference for having his opponents brought back to Cameroon; he prefers them abroad."
He highlighted the hypocritical nature of the situation, noting that many political exiles from other African nations have found refuge in Cameroon over the years without being extradited. "From Mrs. Deby of Chad to various Rwandans since 1994, Cameroon has been a sanctuary. This protection has always prevailed over political desires."
**A Call to Action**
"This extradition is a malicious and petty act aimed at appeasing Etoudi. It’s a sign of the desperate times within the Cameroonian government as they face health and succession issues," the expatriate said. "Cameroonians must demand transparency and accountability. This is not just about Steve Akam; it’s about the future of our democracy and the protection of human rights."
As international pressure mounts, the case of Ramon Cota has become a poignant example of the challenges faced by political activists in Africa. It underscores the urgent need for stronger international mechanisms to protect dissidents and ensure that political considerations do not override fundamental human rights.
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Jakiri, Cameroon –* On Sunday, July 21, 2024, the Ambazonian Defense Forces (ADF) launched a brazen attack on the Divisional Officer’s (DO) office in Jakiri, a town in the Bui Division of Cameroon’s restive North West region.
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Douala, Cameroon* – The Commercial Division of the Tribunal de Grande Instance (TGI) of Wouri is set to deliver its ruling on July 23, 2024, regarding a contentious case initiated by Bestinver, a holding company tied to prominent businessman Baba Danpullo.
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Ramon Cotta, a prominent Cameroonian activist known for his vehement criticism of the Yaoundé regime, was arrested by Gabonese security forces and extradited to Cameroon earlier this week. This sudden development has triggered significant backlash and raised serious questions about the adherence to international human rights protocols.
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*Washington, D.C. — July 22, 2024* — President Joe Biden's recent announcement of his withdrawal from the 2024 U.S. presidential race due to health concerns is a significant moment in American political history.
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Subcategories
Biya Article Count: 73
# Paul Biya and his regime
Explore the political landscape of Cameroon under the rule of Paul Biya, the longest-serving president in Africa who has been in power since 1982. Our Paul Biya and his regime section examines the policies, actions, and controversies of his government, as well as the opposition movements, civil society groups, and international actors that challenge or support his leadership. You'll also find profiles, interviews, and opinions on the key figures and events that shape the political dynamics of Cameroon.
Southern Cameroons Article Count: 549
.# Southern Cameroons, Ambazonia
Learn more about the history, culture, and politics of Ambazonia, the Anglophone regions of Cameroon that have been seeking self-determination and independence from the Francophone-dominated central government. Our Southern Cameroons section covers the ongoing conflict, the humanitarian crisis, the human rights violations, and the peace efforts in the region. You'll also find stories that highlight the rich and diverse heritage, traditions, and aspirations of the Southern Cameroonian people.
Editorial Article Count: 885
# Opinion
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