Ministry of Women's Empowerment Takes a Stand Against Predator Herve Bopda

The Minister acknowledged the shock within the national public following anonymous denunciations by whistleblowers, presumably women, accusing Herve Bopda of serious crimes, including harassment, kidnapping, threats with a firearm, and rape. More gravely, some complainants alleged that Bopda, infected with HIV/AIDS, was spreading the virus among the female population and even among children, particularly young boys.

Facing these alarming accusations, the Ministry welcomed the referral to competent judicial authorities for the initiation of an investigation to establish the veracity of the claims. Madame Abena Onoa underscored the prevalence of violence against women and children in the Cameroonian context and emphasized the need for a thorough examination of such cases.

Pending judicial proceedings, the Ministry stands firmly by the complainants and their families, offering necessary assistance during this challenging time. The Minister reminded victims that the decentralized services of her ministry provide listening and psychosocial support structures, encouraging them to seek urgent and free assistance from these services.

Madame Abena Onoa urged all victims to break the silence, emphasizing the importance of breaking the chain of violence. She called on victims to provide judicial authorities with essential information to facilitate proceedings aimed at establishing the truth and, if necessary, convicting the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.

Expressing her complete availability and unwavering determination, the Minister reassured all victims of gender-based violence of the government's commitment to energetically combatting this pervasive issue in the country. The statement serves as a testament to the government's dedication to ensuring justice, support, and protection for those affected by gender-based violence in Cameroon.