Junior Ngombe released after Unlawful Detention Draws Criticism from Across the Spectrum

Update: July 31, 2024: Junior Ngombe has today been released after national and international condemnation. He spent seven days in unlawful detention. Below is the full story of his arrest. 

The demand for the release of 23-year-old Junior Ngombe, currently detained at the State Secretariat of Defence (SED), is gaining momentum. Ngombe was forcibly taken from his residence in Douala on Thursday, July 25, by SED agents without a warrant or official notice.

“It has already been four days since his unlawful arrest,” stated Ngombe’s mother. The arrest, which occurred under questionable circumstances, is believed to be linked to Ngombe’s vocal criticism of the regime and his calls for extensive voter registration ahead of the 2025 presidential elections. Despite the lack of official charges, his detention has sparked outrage among politicians and human rights defenders.

The case has drawn significant attention from prominent figures. Barrister Michele Ndoki and her Nation Builders Movement have been holding discussions about the endemic problem of freedom of expression in Cameroon. Similarly, Prof. Maurice Kamto, President of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement, condemned the arrest as an abuse of power. He highlighted Ngombe’s dedication to democratic change through voter registration, emphasizing the importance of including young people in the electoral process. “Through his educational and persuasive talks, Junior undoubtedly ended up irritating those within the state apparatus who hatched a plot against freedom and democracy in Cameroon,” Kamto stated.

Kamto has urged President Paul Biya to release Ngombe immediately, calling him a symbol of responsible and hopeful youth. “Mr. President of the Republic, there is an urgent need to stop this rampant drift, which does not bode well for our country on the eve of a crucial presidential election,” Kamto added. He also demanded that those responsible for using state power to intimidate citizens be held accountable.

Barrister Akere Muna, a former presidential candidate, has also voiced his support. “Concerned about his uncertain future, he rightfully expresses his worries and frustrations, as allowed by the constitution. Despite the challenges he faces, he remains hopeful for a better future in Cameroon,” Muna said. He praised Ngombe for advocating through peaceful means rather than risking dangerous journeys like those across the Sahara or Mediterranean. Muna criticized the preferential treatment given to corrupt individuals involved in scandals, contrasting it with the harsh treatment of a young activist expressing legitimate concerns.

Rebeca Enouchong, President of the Cameroon People’s Party, and Mimi Mefo, Editor-in-Chief of MMI, have joined the chorus calling for Ngombe’s release. Both have experienced arbitrary detention themselves for opposing the current regime.

Mimi Mefo speaking during an X Space event, linked it to the broader issues of bad governance in Cameroon. “Where bad governance lives, freedom of expression is under attack,” she said.

The hashtag #FreeJuniorNgombe has gained traction on social media as the public response intensifies. This arrest follows a recent Human Rights Watch report highlighting the increasingly difficult living conditions in Cameroon and the Mfoundi SDO’s threats against critics of state institutions.

Born in 2001, during President Paul Biya’s long tenure, Junior Ngombe has founded the platform “Jeunesse Debout Pour Le Changement” to advocate for political change. His uncertain future now stands at the center of a broader debate on human rights and political freedom in Cameroon.

This article has been updated on the 31st July 2024