Biya’s Former Public Service Minister Says Ekane’s Death Threatens Cameroon’s Democratic Credibility

By A.J.

A former Minister of Public Service and current Technical Adviser at the Ministry of Justice, Michel Ange Angouing, has expressed deep concern over the shocking death of political leader Anicet Ekane while in state custody, warning that the incident undermines Cameroon’s claims to democracy.

Ekane, leader of MANIDEM and a known defender of human rights and civil liberties, was arrested shortly after the October 2025 presidential election, after he openly supported opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary and demanded transparency in the vote-counting process.

His detention quickly sparked public criticism, particularly after reports emerged that he was denied access to critical medical treatment despite his worsening health condition.

Ekane died on December 1, 2025, at the Gendarmerie military hospital Yaoundé, igniting national outrage and accusations of political persecution.

In a statement issued this week, Angouing, who once served as a prosecutor in Douala and worked closely with Ekane during the period of the Bepanda “Nine Disappeared” case, described the late politician as a great patriot whose activism strengthened democracy in Cameroon.

He recounted Ekane’s unwavering principles even under judicial pressure, quoting him during a past detention: “Mr. Prosecutor of the Republic, President Biya has offered spaces of freedom to Cameroonians, we thank him but we are asking for more.”

Angouing warned that Ekane’s death “can give reason to those who believe there is no democracy in Cameroon,” stressing that such a loss represents “a disastrous setback” for the progress the nation has fought to achieve.

As questions mount over the circumstances surrounding his arrest and treatment in custody, Ekane’s family, supporters, and several civil society groups have demanded an independent investigation to establish accountability.

In his tribute, Angouing urged political actors to reclaim democratic principles and decency.

“Politics is a game and must remain a game. Politics is a matter of gentlemen. When it is rooted in ethics and humanism, it strengthens social cohesion and promotes development.”

He concluded by praying that Ekane’s death “becomes a blessing for Cameroon,” calling for unity and respect for democratic rules to preserve the nation’s future.

The controversy surrounding Ekane’s death continues to intensify, as pressure mounts on authorities to explain how a key political figure died while under their watch.