AFRICAN CONSCIENCE : African Network Of Grassroots Democracy
PRESS RELEASE N' 64/CA/NW-LT/2025
CAMEROON’S HUMAN RIGHTS CRISIS: ORGANIZATIONS FACE THEFTS AND THREATS.
WE WISH TO BRING TO THE ATTENTION OF NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY AS FOLLOWS;
That HUMAN IS RIGHTS ORGANIZATION’S OFFICE, BUEA, SOUTH WEST REGION was attacked and broken into on January 20, 2024, by unknown individuals, taking away Office equipment, including: 5 computer central units,3 laptops,2 digital cameras etc.
That this incident was confirmed by the management of the Organization as seen on a press statement signed by it Director, CHAMANGO BLAISE AIME, dated January 21, 2025.
That it should be noted this isn’t an isolated incident, as Human rights organizations and defenders in Cameroon are recently facing systemic attacks and threats, with latest being that of NOUVEAUX DROITS DE L’HOMME-CAMEROON’S OFFICE.
That it’s obvious, these attacks aim to « SHUT UP CIVIC SPACE » and discourage human rights defenders from doing their work. The situation escalated after four non-governmental organizations were suspended on December 6, 2024, by the Minister of Territorial Administration on accusations described by the organizations as unfounded.
That CONSCIENCE AFRICAINE therefore, 1. Condemns the break-in at HUMAN IS RIGHTS OFFICE BUEA, regrets the systematic THREATS and THEFTS on Human Rights Organizations, calls for an immediate investigation.
2.Urge authorities to guarantee protection for human rights defenders who strives to promote justice, equality, and human dignity.
Douala, this January 23rd, 2025
Signed
Amadu TARNTEH
Executive Director