Cameroon’s opposition leader Anicet Ekane dies in military detention

Veteran Cameroonian opposition leader Anicet Ekane died in military custody in Yaounde on Monday, 38 days after his detention in Douala. The 74-year-old leader of MANIDEM was arrested on October 24 after supporting Paul Biya's rival in the disputed October presidential election. Authorities charged Ekane with insurrection and rebellion, charges his party claims were politically motivated. His family alleges medical neglect, stating that his condition deteriorated and he was denied adequate treatment despite their appeals. Ekane's death has sparked outrage and threatens to worsen the political crisis following the election, in which 92-year-old Biya secured another term. The government claims Ekane received adequate care and has launched an investigation.

Anicet Ekane, a 74-year-old Cameroonian opposition figure, died in detention five weeks after his arrest, according to his lawyers and party. Ekane was a leader of an opposition coalition that endorsed Issa Tchiroma Bakary in the October presidential election. No official cause of death has been announced, but Ekane's party alleges he was denied access to medication, a claim the government denies. Authorities state he died from illness and was treated at a military medical facility, launching an investigation into the circumstances of his death. Ekane's lawyers claim his detention was illegal, as he was never formally charged. His death has sparked shock and anger, with supporters gathering and security forces surrounding the Manidem party headquarters.