Cameroonian opposition leader dies in custody

Civil society groups have condemned the death of a prominent Cameroonian opposition leader Anicet Ekane, who died in state custody on December 1st, according to Africa News and agencies.

Cyrille Rolande Bechon, Coordinator of the NGO New Human Rights, described Ekane’s death as “a shock to civil society. Ekane was subjected to arbitrary detention for over 30 days, a clear violation of fundamental rights and Cameroon’s international commitments.”

The October 12th election saw President Paul Biya re-elected for an eighth consecutive term. Critics of Biya have faced legal threats, including his main opposition candidate, Issa Tchiroma, who reportedly fled to Gambia due to fears for his safety.

Africa News and agencies, Maghrebi.org