Rising Restrictions on Artistic Freedom in Africa Linked to Political Crises, Flawed Elections and Covid
“Over the last few years in Africa, we have witnessed disturbing attacks on artists from around the continent, accompanied by widespread and pernicious efforts to dampen the right to… More
Gaston Philippe Abe Abe Valsero
Abe Abe, known by his stage name Valsero, was arrested at a demonstration in Yaoundé and spent almost nine months in prison on trumped up charges, including terrorism. He… More
Eric Ohena Lembembe
A lawyer who represented LGBT clients, Lembembe's mutilated body was found on July 15, 2013. Though the Cameroonian government denies reports that his murder was linked to LGBT activism,… More
Tsi Conrad
Conrad, a photojournalist, was beaten and arrested at gunpoint in 2016 while filming a rally at which police killed four protesters. For disseminating the footage, Conrad was sentenced to… More
Enoh Meyomesse
In November 2011, Meyomesse was arrested for attempting to organize a coup following a failed presidential bid challenging the 30-year rule of President Paul Biya. He served three years… More
Continued Detention of Cameroonian Journalist an Affront to Free Expression
"This is an obvious injustice, and one that sends a loud message to Cameroonian journalists and everyday citizens alike that the Cameroonian government does not take free expression rights… More
Cameroonian Rapper Valsero Released After Nearly Nine Months of Detention
We are overjoyed that Valsero is finally free to reunite with his family and make music in peace. More
PEN America to Monitor Trial of Unjustly Incarcerated Cameroonian Rapper
PEN America has called his persecution an “inexcusable violation of artistic freedom of expression,” and says the charges must be dropped immediately. More
Cameroonian Rapper and Activist to Appear Before Court, Could Face Death Penalty
"This is clearly a targeted attempt to silence an internationally known and beloved rapper who strives, both through his music and his activism, to critique the government and inspire… More
Cameroonian-American Writer Patrice Nganang Abducted at Airport and Detained
We condemn Nganang’s detention and call on the Cameroonian authorities to release him unharmed immediately. More