By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Cameroon has banned media from discussing President Paul Biya’s health, citing it as a “matter of national security.” This directive, issued by Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji, establishes monitoring cells for online content.
Government spokesperson Rene Sadi dismissed health rumors as “pure fantasy” and claimed Biya is in good health after a private visit to Europe. Critics have labeled the ban as censorship, with journalist Hycenth Chia stating that Cameroonians have a right to be concerned about the president’s whereabouts.
The Committee to Protect Journalists also expressed outrage, arguing that such restrictions hinder public discourse. With Biya’s long tenure of over 41 years, observers fear that his death could lead to significant political instability in the region.
Source: Al Jazeera
