List Posts

View All
Society

Stakeholders Harness Education To Drive Peace And Security

By Gilfort Fur Education experts and security stakeholders gathered in Yaounde from March 26 to 27 to explore how academic…

Society

Cameroon, Saudi Fund For Development Ink FCFA 45.83B Loan For Road Projects In North Region

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Cameroon and the Saudi Fund for Development have signed a financial agreement of over FCFA 45.83…

Society

Solange Tegwi Launches Healing-Focused NGO, TAIA

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Solange Tegwi, a local journalist, officially launched the Therapeutic Action Initiative Association (TAIA) on March 21,…

Entertainment

“Lights Out” Movie Premieres In Douala On April 18, Igniting Global Buzz

 By Doc Moore The curtain is about to rise on one of the most highly anticipated cinematic events of the…

Morocco 2025: Cameroon, Ivory Coast Vie for Early AFCON Dominance In Group F Clash

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Defending champions Ivory Coast will face five-time winners Cameroon in a blockbuster Group F clash at the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON on Sunday December 28, with both sides aiming to take command of the group after narrow opening victories.

Cameroon players celebrate after scoring against Gabon in their opening match of Group F at the ongoing 2025 AFCON (Photo Credit: CAF)

The match at Stade de Marrakech kicks off at 8 p.m. GMT, pitting the Elephants against the Indomitable Lions in what promises to be a tense, high-stakes battle between two of Africa’s powerhouse teams.

Both nations kicked off their campaigns with hard-fought 1-0 wins on Dec. 24. Manchester United winger Amad Diallo scored the lone goal for Ivory Coast in a dominant but profligate display against Mozambique, breaking the deadlock early in the second half.

Cameroon, meanwhile, edged Gabon thanks to Karl Etta Eyong’s early strike, marking their first AFCON victory over their neighbors and underscoring their trademark resilience in the tournament play.

A victory this Sunday would put the winner in pole position to top the group and advance comfortably to the round of 16, while also delivering an early psychological blow in Morocco’s winter tournament.

These storied rivals have produced classic encounters over the years, often guarded affairs settled by fine margins or individual brilliance. Sports pundits anticipate another tactical showdown, with midfield dominance likely to prove decisive.

AFCON Trophy (Photo Credit: CAF)

Ivory Coast’s solid backline, featuring seasoned defenders, will be tested by Cameroon’s potent attackers, including Premier League talents like Bryan Mbeumo. On the flip side, the Lions’ organized defense must neutralize the Elephants’ speedy wide players and creative flair on the counter.

Cameroon boasts five AFCON crowns, while Ivory Coast have three — including their dramatic home triumph in 2023. This latest meeting adds another layer to a fierce rivalry filled with unforgettable moments.

For the Elephants, success would reinforce their credentials as serious contenders to become the first repeat champions since Egypt in 2010. For Cameroon, it would signal their intent to chase a sixth title and reclaim their spot atop the continental hierarchy.

The Ivory Coast vs. Cameroon rivalry remains neck-and-neck heading into their December 28 clash. While Cameroon leads the all-time head-to-head (10 wins to 8), Ivory Coast has dominated lately, losing just once in their last five meetings. From the iconic 1992 AFCON shootout to modern-day battles, history suggests this next chapter will be just as tight.

Stade de Marrakech is set for a charged atmosphere under the lights, as fans from both camps are expected to create a vibrant backdrop for this marquee matchup. With Ivory Coast carrying momentum from their recent success and Cameroon drawing on their famed knockout pedigree, neutrals can expect a cautious start, intense battles in the middle and a outcome hanging on the slimmest of edges.

This is the sort of epic confrontation that can shape an entire tournament — and neither team will give ground easily.

 

Cameroon Secures FCFA 51.8Bn Loan To Modernize State-Owned Agro Giant CDC

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon has secured a loan worth about 51.8 billion CFA francs ($86 million) from Standard Chartered Bank to modernize processing facilities at the state-owned Cameroon Development Corporation, officials said.

A cross view of the plant to be constructed in CDC(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The agreements were signed Dec. 19 in Yaounde by Economy Minister Alamine Ousmane Mey and Nkposong Asuquo, Standard Chartered’s director for African markets. The financing, structured by the bank’s London branch, includes a buyer’s credit of 71.7 million euros guaranteed by France’s BPI France public investment bank and a tied commercial credit of 7.1 million euros.

The funds will support the supply and installation of modern plants for processing palm oil, margarine and rubber at CDC facilities. The 25-month project is being executed by French company Tyllium, with oversight from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the CDC as delegated project owner.

The initiative is part of the CDC’s economic recovery plan and aligns with Cameroon’s National Development Strategy 2020-2030, aimed at structural transformation, job creation, local processing of agricultural products, reduced import dependence and regional growth, particularly in the Southwest Region.

Minister Ousmane Mey and Nkposong Asuquo exchanging MoU (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

During the occasion, Minister Ousmane Mey described the agreements as the result of effective partnerships guided by President Paul Biya’s vision for Cameroon to emerge as a developed nation by 2035.

“The support aligns with the implementation of the SND30, which targets strong, inclusive and sustainable growth, decent job creation and poverty reduction,” he said, emphasizing balanced territorial development.

Nkposong Asuquo highlighted Standard Chartered’s more than 40-year partnership with Cameroon, noting the bank has provided over 1.5 billion euros in financing for strategic projects in recent years.

“We are proud of the progress Cameroon has made and honored to support its future development,” he said. He added that the CDC project is significant for agricultural advancement, bolstering production and export capabilities.

Officials posed for a family picture (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

A representative of the French Ambassador to Cameroon said the project advances food security by promoting local palm oil production to curb imports and supports exports of finished rubber products for revenue generation.

The CDC General Manager, Franklin Ngoni Njie called the financing another sign of the President’s commitment to rebuilding and modernizing the corporation.

Bruno Schambacher, President of Tyllium, thanked Cameroonian authorities and partners for years of collaborative work to secure the financing, which will fund machinery and equipment for the factories.

The signing follows government efforts earlier in 2025 to clear salary arrears at the CDC, a major employer in the agro-industrial sector.

 

Dzekwa Rangers, Melim United Set for Historic 2025 BSFC Final

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The stage is set for a historic showdown at the Yaounde Military Stadium as the 2025 Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) reaches its climax. On Dec. 28, Dzekwa Rangers will face Melim United in a final that marks a symbolic changing of the guard for the prestigious annual tournament.

Dzekwa Rangers (L) and Melim United (R) read to face each other on December 28 (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

For the Dzekwa Rangers, this appearance is the culmination a long journey. For some years, the Rangers have been a staple of the BSFC, known more for their persistence and loyal fan base than for championship hardware. Despite years of competitive play, the club has historically struggled to break through into the finals.

This year, however, the narrative shifted. The Rangers displayed a new level of tactical discipline, punching their ticket to the final with a gritty 2-1 victory over Melim United during the sixth day of group stage—a win that solidified their status as the team to beat.

While the Rangers represent veteran persistence, Melim United represents a meteoric rise. Over the last three editions of the BSFC, Melim United has transformed from a participant into a powerhouse.

Their path to the 2025 final has been defined by a “never say die” attitude, overcoming early-season stumbles to emerge as the tournament’s most explosive offensive threat.

Club supporters are hopeful that this is the year the “Melim Obstacle” is finally cleared, bringing a first-ever championship trophy to their cabinet.

The final serves as the “rubber match” of a three-part saga between these two clubs in this year BSFC. Their journey began on Sept. 28 in a defensive 0-0 stalemate. The second meeting was the aforementioned 2-1 Rangers victory, a match so intense it reportedly set attendance records for the preliminary rounds.

“It is poetic that the two teams who kicked off the competition in September are the ones closing it in December,” said a supporter. “It proves that these are, without question, the two most consistent squads in this years competition.”

The BSFC has grown into more than just a competition; it is a cultural touchstone for the Bui community. With both teams seeking their first-ever title, the atmosphere at the Military Stadium is expected to be electric.

Organizers are anticipating a capacity crowd as fans from across the region descend on Yaounde to witness which club will finally etch its name into the annals of Cameroon’s most passionate fan-driven competition. The winner will succeed Nso Boys FC, champions of the 2024 edition.

Ambassador Lamora Calls On Newly Installed Striking Eagles Exco To Keep Focus

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The U.S. Ambassador to Cameroon, H.E Christopher J. Lamora has urged the newly elected executive of the Striking Eagles to remain focused on the qualities that have defined the team’s success. Ambassador Lamora made the remarks on Dec. 20 in Yaounde during an installation ceremony for the team’s new leadership.

Ambassador Lamora speaking after the friendly match (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I told them to keep focused on the things that have made the Striking Eagles a really great organization and a strong football team, and I have total confidence the new board will continue and build on the legacy of the old board,” Ambassador Lamora said.

Prior to the ceremony, the diplomat praised the team’s resilience during a friendly match against SIAC football team of Febe Village. The Striking Eagles trailed 3-0 at halftime before rallying to a 5-3 victory.

Ambassador Lamora installing the new executive board of the Striking Eagles (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I’m really proud of our Embassy team,” Ambassador Lamora said. “They played really, really hard. Our opposing team also played really well. I’m glad that our team won, but at the end of the day, it’s about sportsmanship, teamwork, friendliness, and creating bonds.”

Isa Adamu, who was re-elected President of the Striking Eagles on Aug. 22, said the team will prioritize Embassy values : Respect, Integrity, Community, and Efficiency (RICE).  “The new mandate is to see we play more games, get more fun, more competitions, and then create more networking with other organizations,” Isa Adamu said.

Striking Eagles of the US Embassy Yaounde (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Isa Adamu noted that a key challenge for the new term is the empowerment of Eligible Family Members (EFMs). “We want to coach them to see how they can also become stable,” he said. “We are trying to build great teams together with the old and the new members.”

SIAC FC of Febe Village, Yaounde (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Isa Adamu stressed that his leadership will be rooted in “teamwork” and the U.S. Embassy’s core values. The executive board with a two year mandate is now looking toward an upcoming General Assembly, which will serve as a focal point for amending the team’s constitution.

Striking Eagles FC and SIAC FC confronting each other(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)
Striking Eagles FC and SIAC FC confronting each other (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)
Striking Eagles FC and SIAC FC confronting each other (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)
Idriss Anaba awarded Man of the Match for the Striking Eagles by US Ambassador, His Excellency Lamora (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)
Amididal Kiylakenyuy awarded Man of the Match for the SIAC FC by US Ambassador, His Excellency Lamora (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Minister Ousmane Mey, Jospong Group Discuss Solutions For Waste Management

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of the Economy, Regional Planning and Development (MINEPAT), Alamine Ousmane Mey and a delegation from the Jospong Group of Companies, based in Ghana, have discuss solutions for waste management issues in Cameroon.

Minister Ousmane Mey and Delegation of Jospong Group of Companies in a family picture (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This is the substance of the audience Minister Ousmane Mey granted the visiting Jospong Group of Companies delegation headed by Yvonne Belema.

After the discussions, Eugene Amo-Asamoah from the Jospong Group expressed appreciation for the productive dialogue. He stressed that their visit aims to enhance Cameroon’s economy through effective waste management solutions.

Amo-Asamoah said, “We have a solution for waste management,” highlighting their focus on solid, liquid, and medical waste. He underscored the critical role of waste management in public health and economic growth, aiming to use their expertise as a tool to improve the livelihoods of Cameroonians.

He pointed out that waste management is often overlooked, but Jospong Group intends to create job opportunities for youth while ensuring environmental safety. “We are bringing state-of-the-art solutions that will transform waste into a resource, promoting job creation,” he added.

With a presence in about 30 countries and over 30 years of experience, Jospong Group looks forward to addressing the waste management challenges currently affecting cities in Cameroon.

Established in 1995, the company has become a significant source of innovation and sustainability across Africa, playing a vital role in national development through job creation.

The group operates across 15 diverse sectors and has 76 subsidiaries, all guided by a vision to be the leading holding company in every sector. Its mission focuses on improving people’s lives while addressing critical needs and promoting sustainable growth through nine dynamic clusters.

Panthère Of Ndé Triumphs In Thrilling 65th Cup Of Cameroon Final

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Panthère Sportive of Ndé, affectionately known as “Nzuimanto” of Bangangté, has been crowned the champions of the 65th edition of the Cup of Cameroon.

In a dramatic final on Sunday, Dec. 14, Panthère secured their third-ever title by defeating Colombe FC of Dja and Lobo in a tense penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in regular time.

The event, which traditionally marks the official close of Cameroon’s sporting season, was presided over by Prime Minister, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, accompanied by numerous high-ranking government officials and sports dignitaries.

The match began with high intensity from both sides, but it was Colombe that immediately seized the initiative, applying heavy pressure on the Panthère defense and creating several promising scoring opportunities.

However, against the run of play, it was Panthère Sportive that secured the opening goal. In the 6th minute, Panthère converted their first significant attempt on goal, taking an early 1-0 lead and stunning the reigning champions.

Colombe responded by relentlessly multiplying their attacking tactics, determined to equalize. Their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by a disciplined and defiant Panthère defense, which managed to hold the line for most of the first half.

The breakthrough for Colombe finally came in the final minutes of extra time in the first half. The sustained pressure yielded a penalty kick, which the reigning champions coolly converted to level the score at 1-1 just before the break.

Returning for the second half, both teams resumed with intense pressure, trading impressive moves in midfield and attack. However, despite the best efforts and strategic substitutions, neither team could break the deadlock.

The second half began with renewed aggression from both sides. The teams traded impressive moves and opportunities, but neither could secure the winning goal. The match remained locked at 1-1 through the remainder of regular time and extra time, culminating in the decisive penalty shootout that saw Panthère emerge as the deserved champions.

Prime Minister hands Cameroon Trophy to Panthère Sportif (Photo Credit: CRTV Web)

Panthère’s victory marks their third triumph in the history of the Cup of Cameroon, adding to titles won in 1988 and 2009. The success is seen as a critical step in reviving the club’s fortunes and restoring its status as one of the nation’s footballing giants.

Their path to the final was marked by tenacity, including a crucial 1-0 semi-final win over the historically venerable Canon FC of Yaoundé. For Panthère, this victory is more than a trophy; it’s a restoration of pride, reconnecting the current squad with their championship history, especially after their last final appearance a decade ago ended in a runner-up finish in 2015.

Colombe FC, on the other hand, arrived at the final seeking to solidify a new era of dominance. As the reigning champions, they had secured their first-ever title in the previous session (2024), beating Aigle Royal of Menoua 1-0. Their second consecutive final appearance demonstrated their current consistency, but they ultimately lost the opportunity to achieve a consecutive title.

This final marked the first-ever meeting between Panthère Sportive of Ndé and Colombe Sportive of Dja and Lobo in the Cup of Cameroon championship match. Their league history in the Elite One tournament, however, shows a slight advantage for the defeated side: out of six league confrontations, Panthère recorded two victories, while Colombe secured four wins, including a dominant 3-0 victory in one encounter.

The final remains one of the most memorable and highly-anticipated events in the national sporting community. It not only decides the football champion but also serves as the official platform for presenting trophies to champions across various other sports disciplines, marking a grand conclusion to the sporting season.

Canon Sportif of Yaoundé still holds the record as the most outstanding team in the history of the Cameroon Cup, having won the trophy 12 times.

Turkish Red Crescent Donates Over 7.5 Tons Of Humanitarian Aid To Cameroon Red Cross

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Cameroon Red Cross has received over 7.5 tons of humanitarian aid from the Turkish Red Crescent Society. The aid was formally handed over on Wednesday December 10, with Cecile Akame Mfoumou, the National President of the Cameroon Red Cross, receiving the donation from Turkish Ambassador Volkan Öskiper.

Turkish Ambassador, Volkan Öskiper handing aids to Cecile Akame Mfoumou, National President of the Cameroon Red Cross (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The aids include essential items such as tents, kitchen utensils, and various clothing, specifically aimed at assisting vulnerable populations in Cameroon. During the handover ceremony, Ambassador Öskiper stressed the significance of the support, highlighting that a recent visit by a high-level Turkish delegation to Yaoundé in April 2025 revitalized bilateral relations.

“The needs in the Far North Region are especially pressing,” Öskiper stated, underscoring the challenges faced by both the local and international communities.

Cecile Akame Mfoumou, National President of the Cameroon Red Cross speaking during the ceremony (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He remarked, “While resources are dwindling, the threats and challenges continue to grow.” He called on responsible members of the international community to lead cooperation efforts during these difficult times.

Ambassador Öskiper reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to standing alongside the Cameroon people, expressing solidarity with vulnerable groups.

On her part, Cecile Akame Mfoumou praised the Turkish Red Crescent Society for its generous contribution, noting that this donation will enhance the resilience of communities that look to the Cameroonian Red Cross for tailored support.

Turkish Ambassador Volkan Öskiper speaking during the ceremony (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“This assistance aligns perfectly with the needs of many communities striving to strengthen their resilience,” she stated.

Cecile Akame Mfoumou further characterized the aid as not merely material but as a profound message of fraternity and humanity, which aligns with the core principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

She reflected on the longstanding partnership between the Cameroon Red Cross and the Turkish Red Crescent, noting it has blossomed since 2021, when their collaboration began during the Central African National Red Cross Societies Coordination meeting(COSNAC) in Douala.

Adesh Tripathee, Head of Delegation for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies speaking during the ceremony (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

That partnership has led to successful collaborations, including a 2025 visit from Turkish Red Crescent delegates and business leaders looking for ways to enhance cooperation. Previous support has enabled the Cameroon Red Cross to acquire vital equipment and materials for educational programs in midwifery, nursing, physiotherapy, and laboratory technician training.

Adesh Tripathee, Head of Delegation for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), expressed profound gratitude for the aid, stressing its symbolic importance in fostering international humanitarian solidarity.

A cross view of aids donated to the Cameroon Red Cross (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He stated, “These supplies represent a long-standing partnership dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable populations in Cameroon.”

Tripathee noted that the aid, particularly the tents, would significantly boost the Cameroon Red Cross’s capacity to provide safe, dignified temporary shelter to families affected by disasters, as well as enhance their community health and first aid initiatives, ultimately saving lives.

Hundreds Honors 21-Year-Old Davy Liam Bolo In Heartfelt Tribute

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Hundreds of family members, friends, and colleagues have paid their last honours to 21-year-old Davy Liam Bolo, who passed away on November 12 at the General Hospital in Yaoundé after suffering from a long illness. The emotional ceremony highlighted his dedication to service and faith, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Liam Bolo was buried in the family compound on December 6 in the Ekonou neighborhood of Yaoundé. The burial ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Monseigneur Jean Baptiste Mendo Mbita, Priest Christian L’abbé Mballa Ntsama, and Rev. Father Adrien Bienvenu Mimboé Mi Ondoua.

Speaking during the ceremony, Priest Mballa Ntsama stated that Davy Liam had come to the end of his journey on earth, and that everyone needed to praise God. He added that Davy Liam was a child who, while on earth, accepted to work in the light, as it is very difficult to see youths embrace and serve Christ as he did.

“We are mourning because death has separated us from him, but on the other hand, it is a new birth, especially for Christians when they return to their Creator, God,” Priest Mballa Ntsama said. “As Christians, we are on a mission, and after that mission, we need to go back to God.”

While urging mourners to grieve in a Christian way, he stressed that death is just a transition, stating that Davy Liam has not died but has simply completed his journey. “To those who have come here to accompany Davy, it is time to accept Jesus Christ. It is time to reflect and take stock of our lives. Let us ask ourselves important questions: If it were me lying here, would God be pleased to welcome me?” he questioned.

Meanwhile, Monseigneur Mendo Mbita remarked that while everyone is mourning, “we should not forget to pray for the departed soul and also reconsider our ways.”

Rev. Father Adrien Bienvenu Mimboé Mi Ondoua described Davy Liam Bolo as a child with exceptional qualities, expressing happiness that wherever he is, God is pleased with him.

Before his passing, Davy Liam Bolo was a Computer Engineer, Graphic Designer, leader of the Sino-American company Green World International, Naturopathic Nutritionist, Manager of the “Health – Balance & Well-being” practice, and an insurance trainer. He also completed multiple training courses in alternative medicine.

Colombe Of Dja & Lobo To Face Panthère Of Nde In 2025 Cameroon Cup Finals

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Just days from now, Colombe of Dja-et-Lobo will face Panthere of Nde in the finals of the 2025 Cameroon Cup. The final, announced by the government, is scheduled for Dec. 14 and will crown the 2025 sporting season in Cameroon.

Colombe of Dja and Lobo confronting Canon FC of Yaounde during the 2022/2023 Football season in Cameroon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Colombe enters the final aiming to solidify their recent dominance. They are the reigning champions of the Cameroon Cup, having secured the title in the previous season. Their appearance marks the club’s second consecutive final, showcasing their consistency at the highest level.

The team’s confidence stems from an impressive run, which saw them achieve a domestic treble—winning the League, the Cameroon Cup, and the Super Cup—in a previous campaign.

This history of success, coupled with recent participation in continental competitions, has instilled a strong winning mentality. For Colombe, this final is about continuing their reign and establishing a football dynasty.

Panthere of Nde on their part brings a proud legacy and a burning desire to reclaim former glory. Known historically as one of Cameroon’s major clubs, Panthere has previously lifted the Cameroon Cup trophy twice, in 1988 and 2009. Their last final appearance was a decade ago, in 2015, where they finished as runners-up.

Their journey to the 2025 final was marked by a tenacious semi-final victory, including a hard-fought 1-0 win over the venerable Canon FC of Yaounde. For Panthere, this match represents more than just a trophy; it is a critical opportunity to revive their hopes, reconnect with their championship history, and restore their status among the nation’s elite clubs.

The final will be a fascinating contest of contrasting drives: Colombe’s push for sustained dominance versus Panthere’s quest for revival. All eyes will be on Yaoundé on Dec. 14 to see who will be crowned the 2025 Cameroon Cup champion.

 

Demand For Answers Grows Louder After Anicet Ekane’s Death In Detention

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon is reeling from the death of Anicet Ekane, 74-year-old leader of the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM) party, who died early Monday, December 1 while in detention in Yaounde.

Anicet Ekane speaking at a press conference on July 19, 2025 after his party endorsed Prof. Kamto for the 2025 Elections (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

His passing, just five weeks after his arrest in the wake of disputed Presidential Elections, has ignited fierce accusations of state-sponsored neglect and prompted widespread demands for an impartial investigation.

Ekane, a lifelong critic of President Paul Biya’s 43-year rule, was taken from his Douala home on October 24 by plainclothes officers. Authorities accused him of inciting rebellion and hostility toward the state—charges his supporters dismiss as politically motivated.

Known to suffer from serious heart and respiratory problems, Ekane is said to have reportedly begged for his medication and inhaler in the days before his death. Family members and lawyers say repeated appeals to allow his personal doctor or to transfer him to a civilian hospital were ignored.

The government insists Ekane received proper medical attention at a military Medical Center of the National Gendarmerie facility in Yaoundé and died of natural causes linked to long-standing “chronic illnesses”.

A statement from the Ministry of Defense expressed regret and announced that an internal inquiry has been launched, with President Biya reportedly ordering a full review. Yet few in the opposition or civil society believe an investigation conducted by the same institutions that held him will deliver the truth.

MANIDEM has gone further, openly accusing the authorities of deliberate murder through medical neglect. “They knew he was gravely ill. They refused him care. This was execution by another name,” a senior party official declared outside their Yaoundé headquarters, where distraught supporters gathered in tears on Monday.

The case has swiftly garnered international condemnation. Cameroonians on the streets of Yaoundé have characterized Ekane’s death as a government-orchestrated plan to silence opposition in the country.

“We are not surprised by what is happening because the regime that stole our elections is capable of anything to maintain power. Even if they haven’t done anything, all fingers are pointing at them. Why were they arresting him?” said a street vendor.

Another resident voiced concerns, stating, “The government must be accountable. The Territorial Administration arrested him, and now the Defense Ministry is attempting to justify the incident by revealing his medical conditions. How can they initiate investigations when they were the ones holding him? Does that mean they don’t trust their own doctors? Many questions remain unanswered.”

The European Union delegation in Cameroon called the death “deeply troubling” and renewed demands for the release of dozens of activists and politicians rounded up after the October 12 election.

Germany and Britain issued similar statements, insisting on a transparent probe. Human Rights Watch described the circumstances as “highly suspicious” and urged the involvement of independent medical experts.

On their path, Ekane’s relatives is said to have hired a prominent French criminal attorney who is pushing for an autopsy to be performed outside Cameroon, fearing that any examination conducted locally could be manipulated. A collective of Cameroonian human rights lawyers has echoed that demand.

A veteran of the 1990s struggle to end one-party rule, Ekane remained a thorn in the government’s side for decades. Though he had endorsed Prof. Maurice Kmato for the 2025 Presidential Elections, but his preferred candidate was disqualified.

His death has become a rallying cry for a fragmented opposition still contesting Paul Biya’s declared victory in an election marred by low turnout, allegations of fraud, and deadly post-vote repression.

As grief transforms into anger on the streets of the country, many fear that Ekane’s fate is not an isolated tragedy but a warning of the lengths to which authorities will go to silence dissent in a nation sinking deeper into political crisis. Whether the promised investigation will bring clarity or merely exacerbate mistrust remains a significant cause for concern.