EU Parliament Calls for the release of Mancho Bibixy, other Anglophone journalists in Cameroon
3 min read
In recent years, press freedom in Cameroon has deteriorated, with journalists facing detention, censorship, and even violence simply for carrying out their work. The European Parliament’s resolution of 3 April 2025 highlights the alarming situation, specifically referencing the cases of journalists Amadou Vamoulké, Kingsley Fomunyuy Njoka, Mancho Bibixy, Thomas Awah Junior, and Tsi Conrad. Their imprisonment is a clear violation of fundamental rights, as Cameroon’s own Constitution guarantees freedom of expression.
The systematic use of arbitrary detention and military court convictions for journalists paints a grim picture of press repression. Reports from international bodies such as the UN Committee against Torture, Freedom House, and the Committee to Protect Journalists reveal shocking instances of journalists facing intimidation, physical assault, torture, and even death at the hands of Cameroonian authorities.
This crackdown has particularly affected journalists reporting on Cameroon’s English-speaking regions, where armed conflict and civil unrest continue. The tragic deaths of journalists like Martinez Zogo, Jean-Jacques Ola Bebe, Samuel Wazizi, and Anye Nde Nsoh between 2019 and 2023 underscore the urgent need for accountability and justice.
in the resolution, the European Parliament condemns these violations and urges Cameroon’s government to respect press freedom, particularly as the 2025 presidential elections approach. It calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the imprisoned journalists and demands that their basic rights including access to medical care, be upheld.
Additionally, the resolution calls on the EU and its Member States to take action, leveraging diplomatic and economic pressure to push for concrete improvements in human rights within Cameroon. As the EU remains Cameroon’s leading trade partner, it holds significant influence to advocate for justice.
The world must not remain silent as journalists risk their lives for truth and accountability. This resolution is a wake-up call to ensure that Cameroon upholds its commitments to free expression, media independence, and human dignity. The fate of these journalists and the broader future of democracy in Cameroon depends on it.
Click Here to read more details
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
