Atanga Nji Bans Media Debates on President Biya’s Health

Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, has warned citizens against engaging in discussions about the health of President Paul Biya, calling such conversations “false” and “malicious.” The warning is contained in a stern statement issued today, October 10, 2024. The Minister described the ongoing rumours as a deliberate attempt to destabilise the country and incite public uncertainty.

“These fabrications aim to disturb the peace of Cameroonians, sow confusion, and create doubt in the minds of the public, with the ultimate goal of pushing the country into uncertainty,” Nji said. His remarks followed widespread speculation about the 91-year-old President’s health, fueled by unverified reports circulating across social media and certain media outlets.

President Biya has not been seen in public since he left the Sino-Africa summit in Beijing on September 8th. Notable events for which he was expected to be present, saw him represented by the Foreign Affairs minister.

Government Spokespersons Deny Health Rumors

Both the Minister Director of the Civil Cabinet (DCC) and the Minister of Communication, who acts as the Government Spokesperson, have previously issued statements condemning the rumours. In alignment with these messages, which were found to be largely contradictory, Minister Nji declared that no further debates or discussions on the matter would be tolerated. He emphasized that such topics are “of national security concern,” and thus, any future commentary on the President’s health in the media is strictly forbidden.

“Following the clarifications from the DCC and MINCOM, no further commentary or debate on the matter should be tolerated in the private media, whether during the week or on weekends,” the Minister reiterated.

Monitoring Units Set Up to Track Media Discussions

To enforce this directive, governors across Cameroon have been instructed to establish monitoring units aimed at tracking and documenting any media coverage or discussions on social platforms related to the President’s health. Nji outlined the measures, noting that violators would face legal repercussions.

“From this day forward, I instruct each Governor to establish, within their competent services, monitoring units responsible for following and recording all broadcasts and debates in private media, and identifying the authors of questionable comments, including those acting through social media,” Nji stated.

Strict Legal Consequences for Violators

He stressed that any debate on the matter is “strictly prohibited,” and warned that offenders would face the “full force of the law.” The minister’s strong words reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring what it sees as national stability amid growing concerns and speculation over President Biya’s health.

Minister Atanga Nji concluded with a call for full compliance, warning that there would be no leniency for those who violate the ban. “I urge you to take appropriate measures to ensure strict compliance with these directives without any leniency,” he said.

The government’s actions come as part of a broader effort to clamp down on what it considers dangerous rumours that could jeopardise public order. By linking the president’s health to national security, the government is effectively placing a gag on the media, preventing it from asking legitimate questions about the whereabouts of the president.

This latest move highlights the growing tension between freedom of speech in private media and the state’s desire to maintain control over sensitive discussions, particularly surrounding the nation’s leadership.

Mimi Mefo Info