Yaounde, Cameroon – A broad coalition of Cameroonian lawyers, religious leaders, civil society members, and political figures has petitioned President Paul Biya of Cameroon to address and halt human rights violations frequent in the country. The petition stems from widespread concern over the government’s reported abuses, particularly in the English regions, where conflicts between separatists and state forces have led to brutal incidents. Reports indicate government forces have committed acts including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and violent reprisals against civilians.
The petitioners highlighted a series of emblematic cases, including the torture and death of journalist Martinez Zogo, the killing of Samuel Wazizi while in military custody, and the torture of Social Media influencer Junior Ngombe. These incidents are emblematic of a climate where journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens are targeted by state forces. Long-standing accusations of human rights abuses have plagued Cameroon, but recent cases have brought unprecedented attention to the brutal measures allegedly employed by government and security personnel.
The petition also references frequent abuses in Cameroon’s northern regions, where residents face indiscriminate state-led violence under the guise of counterterrorism operations against groups like Boko Haram. In these regions, civilians have often been subjected to unlawful detentions, forced disappearances, and executions, creating an atmosphere of fear and repression.
As the petitioners call on Biya to enact concrete reforms, they stress the need for an impartial investigation into these incidents and are urging him to impose punitive measures against those responsible. They emphasize that without accountability and structural change, the cycle of violence will persist, undermining both human rights and democratic governance in Cameroon
Religious leaders and rights groups stress the urgent need for Biya’s government to curb state violence and address the longstanding grievances fueling the Ambazonia conflict. The conflict’s roots trace back to historical political marginalization of English regions. The government has sporadically responded to international outcry, announcing limited investigations into some incidents, but advocates argue that these efforts lack transparency and leave most cases of abuse unaddressed.
Activists and leaders involved in the petition are pressing for international support to ensure independent oversight and to facilitate peace negotiations that could lead to a democratic and stable governance framework in Cameroon, specifically advocating for measures that will protect citizens and restore civil rights in affected areas.
