Yaoundé, Cameroon – Veteran opposition politician Anicet Ekane, 74, has died while in detention in Yaoundé, Cameroon’s capital, officials and his lawyers confirmed on Monday.
Ekane was arrested on 24 October 2025 in Douala, a day before the announcement of the presidential election results that secured President Paul Biya an eighth term in office. He was later transferred to Yaoundé under military custody.
The cause of Ekane’s death remains unclear. His lawyers allege severe neglect, reporting that he suffered serious breathing difficulties and deteriorating health, and that essential medical equipment was withheld during his detention.
The Cameroonian government stated that he died “following an illness” and was receiving treatment, but his party and supporters have called for an independent investigation, describing his death as politically suspicious.
Ekane, leader of the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM), was a longtime critic of President Biya. His death has sparked outrage and concern over human rights and political freedoms in Cameroon.
