BREAKING NEWS: Maurice Kamto Held Under House Arrest in Douala as Biya Regime Cracks Down

Security forces have surrounded his temporary residence with over 500 police officers and gendarmes, barring him from traveling to the headquarters of his political party, the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC), in Deido.

The crackdown comes just days after Kamto's widely-publicized meeting in Paris, where he called on the Cameroonian diaspora and youth to prepare for real political change. His rising popularity appears to have sent the 92-year-old President Paul Biya’s regime into panic mode, resorting once again to intimidation and brute force.

Security Forces Block Peaceful Assembly

Early on Sunday morning, local authorities banned motorcycle taxis along the route Kamto was expected to take. As supporters began gathering outside the MRC headquarters, police officials declared the meeting illegal and moved to block all access points. Observers report that Kamto has been prevented from leaving his residence despite the absence of a formal administrative order.

Echoes of Past Repression

This is not the first time the Biya regime has used force against Kamto. In 2019, he was detained for nine months without trial after contesting the 2018 presidential election results. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, condemned the arrest as a violation of democratic freedoms.

Legal experts and activists are warning that the current situation constitutes a serious breach of civil liberties and due process, signaling further erosion of democracy under Biya’s long-standing rule.

Public Backlash and Growing Resistance

Internationally renowned Cameroonian artist Richard Bona reacted sharply online, criticizing the government for dragging Kamto before a military tribunal simply for organizing a peaceful rally in Paris. Social media in Cameroon is currently flooded with messages of support for Kamto and criticism of the heavy-handed police response in Douala.

Biya's Grip on Power Questioned

President Paul Biya, now 92, was last seen at the May 20 national ceremony where he appeared visibly frail and disoriented. Images circulated widely online suggested he may have suffered a public incontinence episode during the event. Despite his age and condition, regime loyalists continue pushing for his re-election in 2025.

What Happens Next?

As of now, Kamto remains confined in his residence. Thousands of his supporters are reportedly attempting to reach the MRC headquarters, despite roadblocks and intimidation by security forces. Political analysts warn that the situation may escalate if the government continues to use force to stifle opposition voices.

This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.