Cameroon’s Election Debate Ban Sparks Concern: Jude Mbaku, a respected Audiovisual Journalist Demands Clarity
Jude Mbaku
In a bold move reflecting growing unease within Cameroon’s media landscape, respected audiovisual journalist Mr. Jub Mbaku has formally addressed the President of the National Communication Council (NCC), seeking urgent clarification on the recent suspension of election debate programs during the campaign period.
The directive, which prohibits audiovisual media from airing political debates in the lead-up to elections, has stirred widespread concern among journalists, civil society organizations, and democracy advocates. Mbaku’s letter questions the context and justification for the ban, asking what specific circumstances prompted such a sweeping restriction and whether it applies uniformly across all media platforms.
Crucially, Mbaku challenges the legal foundation of the directive, probing whether it aligns with Cameroon’s constitutional guarantees and regulatory frameworks governing press freedom and electoral transparency. He also seeks clarity on how the ban will be enforced, its intended purpose, and the potential consequences for democratic engagement.
This decision risks silencing critical voices and undermining the public’s right to informed electoral discourse.
His intervention comes at a time when Cameroon’s democratic institutions face mounting scrutiny over transparency, fairness, and the role of independent media in shaping public debate. As the nation prepares for upcoming elections, the NCC’s directive raises urgent questions about the balance between regulation and repression.
For media professionals and civil society actors, Mbaku’s letter is more than a request for clarification, it’s a call to defend the integrity of Cameroon’s democratic process.
Read full letter below:
Tuesday September 23th, 2025, Mr. Joseph Chebonkeng, President, National Communication Council (NCC), Yaoundé, Cameroon
About Suspension of Election Debate Programs on Audiovisual Media in Cameroon during Campaign
Mr President,
With due professional respect, I address this letter to your high office concerning information recently reported by DASH TV News, (6:30PM News of this day) indicating that the National Communication Council has instructed media houses to suspend election debate programs on radio and television during the official two-week presidential campaign period. I vividly remember a similar situation few days ago when you visited the Northern Region.
As a journalist committed to professionalism and respect for state institutions, I seek clarification on this matter, as the implications are seemingly complex for media practitioners, the electorate, and the democratic process as a whole.
Specifically, I wish to understand:
1. The Context– What circumstances informed this directive?
2. Scope of Application of the suspension– Does it affect only audiovisual media, or does it extend to print and digital platforms as well? What’s assessment tools are in place to determine this?
3. Legal Basis– What provisions of Cameroonian law, media law or Electoral Code empower the NCC to enforce such a suspension?
4. Degree of Enforcement– Is this a recommendation, an advisory guideline, or a binding regulatory sanction?
5. Intension– What gains for Cameroon’s democratic process are envisaged in suspending Media debate programs at a time citizens need clarity and engagement in such a crucial time in their history- The Presidential Election?
6. With what Consequences? – Mr Joe, how does the NCC intend to reconcile this suspension with the constitutional duty of the press to inform, educate, and sensitize the electorate without fear or favor?
Mr. President, the media is an indispensable partner in nation building, particularly during elections.
I like you to know that where i practice, in the South south West region, the efforts to engage election is first a daunting one. The Press is already under attack in its frantic efforts to inform and educate the citizens here on their rights to soufrage.
Debate programs are not only platforms for political exchanges but also essential tools for helping citizens make informed choices. If such programs are to be suspended, the rationale, legal instruments, and safeguard measures must be clearly communicated to prevent confusion, mistrust, or the perception of censorship.
I therefore respectfully urge your high office to provide a public clarification. Such transparency will guide journalists especially those who haven’t had the opportunity to attend those seminar organized by NCC in major cities, in upholding professionalism and to reinforce the credibility of the NCC as a guarantor of both ethical standards and press freedom in Cameroon.
I hope to read from you soonest. Thank you for the efforts you have been putting in so far at NCC.
In dire anticipation
Jude MBAKU, Audiovisual Journalist, Buea, South West. Duly Approved!
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.
