Cameroon lawyers began a three-day strike to protest police brutality, highlighting violent treatment towards their profession. The Bar Association condemned recent incidents and vowed to take legal action. This strike follows previous protests against escalating repression under President Biya’s long-term tenure ahead of the 2025 presidential election.
Lawyers in Cameroon began a three-day strike on Wednesday to protest against escalating police brutality targeting their profession. This action led to many courtrooms being left empty, highlighting the lawyers’ discontent with the increasing violence against them. The Cameroon Bar Association voiced strong condemnation, pointing to the recent incidents of brutality, including a viral video showing an assault on a lawyer and the kidnapping of another lawyer protesting clients’ rights violations.
The Bar Association’s president, Mbah Eric Mba, emphasized the need for justice, stating that they will pursue legal action in response to these abuses. This is not an isolated incident; Cameroonian lawyers had previously staged protests in November following the hospitalization of a colleague due to police detention.
The ongoing repression of dissent in Cameroon, especially under the long-standing leadership of President Paul Biya, has raised concerns among activists and human rights organizations. As the country approaches the presidential election scheduled for October 2025, fears of increasing oppression have intensified, prompting the legal community to express their grievances through organized strikes and actions.
The strike by Cameroonian lawyers illustrates their collective stand against police brutality and reflects ongoing concerns over human rights violations within the country. The actions taken by the Bar Association indicate a commitment to hold authorities accountable. As the society navigates toward the upcoming election, the emphasis on justice and the protection of legal professionals’ rights remains crucial in Cameroon.
Original Source: newscentral.africa