Jean-Jacques Ola Bébé: the voice of Cameroon that fell silent
In the Cameroonian media landscape, Jean-Jacques Ola Bébé was an essential figure. Priest, radio host and regular media speaker, he was recognized for his expertise on current affairs and social issues. However, his tragic disappearance, which occurred eight months ago in Yaoundé, remains shrouded in mystery and silence from the authorities.
On January 17, Cameroon was in shock following the disappearance of Martinez Zogo, the host of the famous show “Embouteillages” on Amplitude FM. Two weeks later, the host’s lifeless body was found, bearing marks of abuse. It was at that time that Jean-Jacques Ola Bébé spoke publicly about the affair, claiming that it was surrounded by manipulation and false information.
Unfortunately, a few days after his statements, Jean-Jacques Ola Bébé was also found dead. His body was transported to the morgue at Yaoundé Central Hospital, but his family and loved ones had to wait weeks before they could identify him. The autopsy report has still not been released, leaving his loved ones uncertain about the circumstances of his death.
Since then, several organizations, such as UNESCO, Human Rights Watch and Christian Action for the Abolition of Torture, have called on the Cameroonian authorities to demand a transparent investigation and answers into these two cases. However, the answers provided so far have not dispelled the doubts and questions.
ACAT France has decided to take matters into its own hands by launching a letter-writing campaign to President Paul Biya to demand a thorough investigation into the assassination of Jean-Jacques Ola Bébé. For this organization, it is not necessary to qualify the priest as a journalist for his assassination to be taken seriously and to be the subject of a serious investigation.
In addition to his role as a radio host, Jean-Jacques Ola Bébé was a Cameroonian citizen whose life was tragically cut short. He deserves justice and transparency, just like Martinez Zogo and all the other victims of crimes that have gone unpunished.
The voice of Jean-Jacques Ola Bébé must not be silenced for good. It is up to Cameroonian society to continue to demand the truth and to demand accountability from the competent authorities. It is by demonstrating courage and determination that we can hope to advance justice and put an end to impunity. The memory of Jean-Jacques Ola Bébé and all victims of crimes in Cameroon must continue to be honored.