Cameroonian opposition leader Ekane dies in custody

 

Cameroonian opposition leader Anicet Ekane has died in detention at the age of 74, a month after his arrest following post-election protests. His death has sparked outrage among his party and civil society groups, who have called for an international investigation and described his death as a "programmed killing".

Ekane, a left-wing nationalist and a prominent critic of President Paul Biya, was arrested in late October in the commercial capital, Douala. He was later transferred to Yaoundé and held on charges of insurrection. His lawyers maintain his detention was illegal and he was never presented before a judge.

Ekane's health deteriorated significantly while in custody. His son and lawyers reported that he had difficulties breathing and eating, and his party stated that essential medical equipment, including an oxygen concentrator, had been confiscated and locked in his impounded car. Repeated requests to transfer him to a better-equipped hospital were reportedly denied.

Meanwhile, Cameroon's Ministry of Defense confirmed Ekane's death at the National Gendarmerie Military Medical Center, stating he was being treated for a chronic illness by military and personal physicians. The government has announced that an investigation into the circumstances of his death is underway.

Ekane's arrest occurred amidst widespread protests over alleged fraud in the October 12 presidential election, which saw the 92-year-old Paul Biya declared the winner for an eighth term. Ekane was a key figure in the "Union for Change" coalition, which backed rival candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary.

Ekane's death has intensified political tensions in Cameroon, with supporters gathering at his party's headquarters in Douala to grieve and demand accountability.