The Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA) has called for investigations into all atrocities committed by both the Cameroonian army and separatist fighters in the English-speaking Regions of the country.
CHRDA’s statement released on Wednesday came after the arrest of frontline separatist leader, Ayaba Cho Lucas, in Norway.
Ayaba Cho, a German national of Cameroonian descent, was detained on suspicion of inciting crimes against humanity in Cameroon.
He commands the Ambazonia Defence Forces (ADF), one of the separatist armed groups accused of human rights atrocities in Cameroon.
The conflict, which has been ongoing for over eight years, has seen widespread violence, affecting millions of civilians.
In a recent publication, CHRDA noted that Cho’s arrest supports their long-standing belief that both sides in the conflict have committed crimes against humanity.
The organisation highlighted its previous works, including a 2019 report titled, “Cameroon’s Unfolding Catastrophe” and the 2023 publication, “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea: The Unheard Voices of the Anglophone War.”
Extensive Human Rights Violations
Both reports documented extensive human rights violations.
“These reports presented undeniable evidence of crimes against humanity committed within the context of the armed conflict in Anglophone Cameroon,” CHRDA said.
The Centre has consistently called for international investigations into these crimes and urged the global community to take action to protect civilians, who continue to bear the brunt of the violence.
CHRDA also reiterated its belief that only a peaceful solution can bring an end to the conflict.
“The Centre calls on the international community to investigate all allegations of crimes against humanity and other gross human rights violations committed by both parties,” it emphasised.
The organisation has urged both the Cameroonian government and separatist groups to engage in sincere, inclusive dialogue aimed at achieving a lasting and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
©Mimi Mefo Info
