Anicet Ekane, a veteran leader of Cameroon’s leftist opposition, has passed away while in state detention. His legal team confirmed the death on Monday, marking a somber development in the government’s ongoing crackdown on political dissent.
Detention Following Post-Election Unrest
Ekane had been incarcerated since October 24, having been swept up during a security operation targeting post-election protests. Authorities had charged the prominent politician with subversion, basing the accusation on his alleged support for Issa Tchiroma.
Tchiroma had challenged the official results by declaring himself the winner of the recent presidential election a move the government classified as illegal.
The resulting political standoff triggered a severe security response that left dozens of citizens dead. Tchiroma has since fled the country and is currently living in exile in Gambia.
Controversy Over Confiscated Medical Equipment
Prior to his death, Ekane’s political allies raised urgent alarms regarding his health and access to necessary medical care. On November 21, the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (Manidem) Ekane’s political party—accused the police of putting their leader’s life at risk.
According to party officials, when security forces seized Ekane’s vehicle in the city of Douala, they also confiscated vital medical supplies located inside, including an oxygen concentrator. At the time, Manidem issued a public warning that depriving Ekane of this equipment was “gravely dangerous” to his health.
His death removes a major figure from the political landscape at a time of deepening instability in the nation.
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
