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Growing Unrest in Cameroon: Anglophone and Far North Regions in Crisis
Amid growing unrest in Cameroon, violence continues to grip the Anglophone and Far North regions, with new incidents reported in previously calm areas such as the North region. As the country prepares for the 2025 presidential election, political tensions and government crackdowns on dissent are further escalating the situation.
Anglophone Regions: Conflict Intensifies
In the Anglophone regions of North West (NW) and South West (SW), separatist-related violence remains a significant challenge. Between August 7 and 9, Ambazonia rebels killed four police officers and one civilian in Bamenda (NW). The military's retaliation resulted in the death of at least one commercial motorbike rider. Later, on August 15, suspected separatists burned five taxis in Bamenda. A series of roadside bombs on August 16 and 17 in Jakiri (NW) claimed the life of a police officer. The violence continued on August 24, when rebels killed three police officers in Buea (SW), and the military responded by killing a separatist fighter in Bambui (NW).
In response to the escalating conflict, UN human rights chief Volker Türk visited Cameroon from August 5 to 7. During his meetings with Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute and other key officials, Türk condemned violations by both the separatists and the military, calling for accountability and urging for improved humanitarian access and dialogue. However, separatists criticized Türk for not visiting the Anglophone regions directly.
The situation remains volatile as Anglophone rebels plan a two-week lockdown around September 9 to coincide with the start of the new school year.
Far North: Jihadist Threat Persists
In the Far North region, jihadist-related violence continues to plague the area. On August 16, soldiers killed a suspected jihadist in Kolofata, Mayo-Sava department. Days later, on August 22, Boko Haram insurgents killed four civilians in Kerawa. Throughout the month, militants conducted raids across the department, stealing food, cattle, and motorbikes. The violence peaked on August 28, when militants reportedly killed seven special forces soldiers in Djibrilli, Mayo-Tsanaga division, and burned three patrol vehicles.
North Region: New Hotspot of Violence
Previously a relatively calm area, the North region experienced a surge in violence. On August 20, bandits kidnapped seven farmers in the Touboro commune, near the Central African Republic border. The captives were later released after a military patrol intervened. Despite this, around eight other people were kidnapped in the same area during August, highlighting the growing insecurity in the region.
Political Climate: Growing Tensions Ahead of 2025 Election
As Cameroon approaches the 2025 presidential election, political tensions are mounting. In early August, a media regulator banned two debate programs on the private television network Équinoxe Télévision, raising concerns about freedom of expression. On August 21, the lawyer of social media activist Ramon Cotta confirmed that his client was being held by gendarmes in Yaoundé after an alleged late-July extradition from Gabon.
Meanwhile, public endorsements of President Paul Biya for the 2025 election have sparked speculation about his potential candidacy. Supporters held rallies in Buea (SW) on August 13, Mamfe (SW) on August 17, and Mokolo (Far North) on August 28, indicating growing momentum for his re-election bid.
Despite the political climate, voter registration numbers remain low. The electoral commission reported 7.9 million registered voters by the August 31 deadline, representing less than half of the total eligible population.
Conclusion
Cameroon is facing a critical period as it prepares for the 2025 presidential election amid ongoing violence and political unrest. The government's response to both separatist and jihadist threats, along with its handling of political dissent, will shape the country's future stability. With tensions running high, the coming months will be pivotal for Cameroon as it navigates these complex challenges.
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