Many visitors to Cameroon have been surprised by the freedoms and liberties enjoyed in the country in stark contrast to what is reported in some sponsored human rights reports. Who has not head diplomats in Cameroon expressing their surprise? Hundreds of TV stations, even more radio stations, hundreds of newspapers, free use of the internet, free movement, unhindered access to all foreign sources of information, functioning judiciary, freedom of association and meetings, open criticisms of the regime, respect of law and order, freedom of religion and much more. What many Cameroonians will quickly tell the visitor is that almost all of these freedoms and liberties were codified and promoted by President Paul Biya.
When Paul Biya came to power, there was only one political party, no private newspapers, no private TV stations, no criticisms of the regime, no freedom to meet or associate, no freedom of manifestation etc etc. He completely opened the political space and encouraged responsible opposition to flourish and seek power peacefully.
The armed forces of Cameroon under Paul Biya, have become one of the greatest respecters of Human Rights on the African continent. Gendarmes, Police and Army officers who used to be above the law before the arrival of Paul Biya now face military justice when they don’t respect Human Rights. Many have been sentenced to jail time and payment of fines.
Paul Biya has personally ordered investigations whenever there have been allegations of Human Rights abuses and has not hesitated to demand that the law be applied with full vigor. He has personally ordered the state to pay reparations whenever victims were clearly determined. In many instances he has personally contacted victims and asked for state forgiveness.
Today, Cameroonians are amongst the most assertive and progressive Africans because of the Human Rights reforms initiated and codified by President Paul Biya. The tolerance and openness seen in Cameroon today is largely based on Paul Biya’s engagement and wisdom.
The sponsored Human Rights reports might try to paint a dark picture of Cameroon but when you visit the country or interact with Cameroonians abroad, you see a free and liberal people structured by the political system of their country.
Even elections which usually involve serious Human Rights issues in other African countries are conducted in Cameroon calmly and responsibly. When Cameroonians will vote this October, it will be peaceful and in respect of Human Rights. The Cameroon People will decide and the rights of each of them will be respected.
No wonder Cameroon hardly faces any post – electoral conflicts or wars seen in other countries. Who can say in this domain President Paul Biya has not done an excellent job?
No wonder Cameroonians will chose their future with Paul Biya over a future of living in another failed African state with no Human Rights under clueless opportunists.
