Amnesty International has called upon Cameroon to address its human rights situation following the suspension of four non-governmental organizations (NGOs), including the Central African Human Rights Defenders Network (REDHAC). The suspension, which was decreed by Cameroonian Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji on December 5, 2024, cited concerns over “illicit and exorbitant funding” purportedly affecting the national financial system’s integrity. Such actions have prompted scrutiny from various human rights organizations and leaders.
Among those affected by the suspension is Alice Nkom, a prominent Cameroonian lawyer and REDHAC board president. Nkom allegedly faced harassment from authorities, having been summoned multiple times by local officials. She has been accused of raising funds to support armed groups, allegations she and her supporters have consistently denied. More details on Nkom’s experiences are accessible through Amnesty International’s account.
REDHAC’s lawyers contend that the suspension decree contravenes Cameroon’s 1990 law on freedom of association, which necessitates authorization from the provincial authority and requires valid reasons related to public order and security for any suspension. Additionally, they argue that responsibility for initiating proceedings related to the financial allegations lies with Cameroon’s National Agency For Financial Investigation and the judicial authorities, supported by a regional regulation on preventing money laundering and terrorism financing.
In a statement, Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s interim Regional Director for West and Central Africa, emphasized how the suspension violates international obligations concerning freedom of expression and association. Human Rights Watch, who has also commented on the issue, views these actions as part of a broader crackdown on civil society, media, and political opposition. More insights from Human Rights Watch can be found in their report on the decree.
REDHAC remains a key player in advocating for human rights across the region. Notably, it submitted a report to the United Nations Committee Against Torture highlighting allegations of torture by Cameroonian security forces. The ongoing dialogue between human rights organizations and the Cameroonian government underscores the critical need for transparency and accountability in such matters.
For further analysis of the unfolding situation, the original article can be read on the JURIST website.