AFRICAN CONSCIENCE : African Network Of Grassroots Democracy
The recent arrests and detentions of over 80 unarmed civilians at Gendarmerie Legion Buea in the South West Region of Cameroon are alarming and unacceptable. These individuals, detained by defense and security forces between September 7th, 2024, and the present, must be released immediately and unconditionally.
The Anglophone conflict in Cameroon has already claimed numerous lives, with both government forces and separatists committing human rights violations and abuses . The international community has expressed concerns about the lack of accountability and the perpetual cycles of impunity in Cameroon.
Key Concerns:
– _Excessive Use of Force_: The use of excessive force by security forces has led to civilian casualties and arbitrary detentions.
– _Lack of Accountability_: Despite international pressure, the Cameroonian government has been slow to investigate and prosecute human rights abuses.
– _Human Rights Violations_: Unarmed civilians are systematically subjected to injustice and acts of barbarism by conflicting parties.
Call to Action:
The international community, human rights organizations, and the Cameroonian government must work together to:
– _Release Detainees_: Unconditionally release all persons arbitrarily detained.
– _Investigate Abuses_: Conduct thorough investigations into human rights abuses.
– _Ensure Accountability_: Prosecute those responsible for human rights violations.
We must prioritize the safety and well-being of unarmed civilians in conflict regions and push for a peaceful resolution to the Anglophone conflict.
Douala 18th September 2024
Signed
Amadu TARNTEH
Executive Director
Conscience Africaine
