Veteran Cameroonian opposition politician Anicet Ekane has died while in military custody in Yaoundé, his family and legal team confirmed on Monday, intensifying tensions following the country’s disputed presidential election.
Death in Custody Raises Questions
Ekane, 74, passed away early Monday morning , 38 days after he was arrested in Douala by security forces. According to France’s RFI, the prominent left-wing leader had been held at a military facility in the capital.
His death has triggered widespread accusations of medical neglect, with critics saying the government failed to provide urgent treatment despite repeated warnings.
Background: Arrest After Disputed Election
The incident comes amid a deepening political crisis following Cameroon’s October presidential election, in which long-time ruler Paul Biya, now 92, claimed another term after more than four decades in power.
Opposition groups have rejected the results, insisting that Biya’s challenger Issa Tchiroma Bakary won the vote.
Ekane, head of the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM), was detained on October 24 after publicly supporting Tchiroma Bakary. Authorities accused him of insurrection and rebellion, charges his party says were politically motivated.
Family and Lawyers Allege Neglect
Ekane’s eldest son, Muna Ekane, said his father’s health declined rapidly in the week before his death.
“For one week, he had difficulties breathing; he was suffocating,” he said.
“We raised the alarm several times, but nothing was done.”
Ekane’s lawyer, Emmanuel Simh, also accused authorities of denying his client proper care.
“Ekane committed no crime. We need to understand why he was arrested and abandoned,” he said.
Growing Condemnation
The MANIDEM party released a statement on Sunday demanding Ekane’s immediate transfer to a civilian hospital, warning that authorities would be held responsible for any consequences. Hours later, news of his death ignited outrage on social media and among opposition groups.
Observers say the incident risks escalating political tensions in Cameroon, where protests and arrests have intensified since the disputed election.