In a context marked by turbulent news in Cameroon, human rights defenders have recently been shaken by a decision that has sparked a wave of indignation. Indeed, three NGOs have been suspended for a period of three months, while two others have been banned outright. Among these targeted entities are branches of the Human Rights Network in Central Africa (Redhac), as well as the Socio-Cultural Charitable Association of Cameroon and the NGO Reach Out Cameroon, based in Buea, in the southwest of the country.
The reasons given by Paul Atanga Nji, Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration, to justify these measures, mention suspicions of “illicit financing”, possible cases of “money laundering”, as well as “financing of terrorism”. These allegations immediately triggered a strong reaction from the members of Redhac, accompanied by the establishment of a crisis unit to counter what they perceive as an attack on freedom of association.
Cyrille Rolande Béchon, Executive Director of the NGO Nouveaux droits de l’homme au Cameroun, which coordinates the crisis unit, expressed her dismay by denouncing this decision as being devoid of legal basis. She also stressed that these actions, far from being surprising given the tense climate that has reigned for several years in Cameroon in terms of territorial administration, are similar to recurring attempts to silence human rights defenders.
A feeling of mobilization and solidarity is emerging within the community of human rights organizations in Cameroon, which plan to maintain their activities despite the restrictions imposed. This controversial decision inspires an organized and determined response, with the aim of firmly denouncing this attack on freedoms and calling for increased protection for those involved in the promotion and defense of human rights in the country.
In a world where the fight for human rights remains a crucial issue, it is essential to remain vigilant and committed to attacks on freedom of expression and association, and to continue to tirelessly defend the fundamental principles that guarantee dignity and justice for all.