Cameroon: Increased security in Douala ahead of unauthorized rally /update 2

Event

An increased security presence has been implemented in the capital Douala ahead of a rally planned by the main opposition party, Social Democratic Front (SDF), scheduled for Saturday, October 21.  Party leadership has confirmed its intension to go ahead with the demonstration despite a ban issued on Thursday. The Douala deputy prefect made the decision to ban the demonstration, in support of Anglophone activists, due to alleged calls for hatred and violence from SDF leaders. The rally is expected to be held at 13:00 (local time) at the the Esplanade du Stade Omnisport de Bepanda, followed by a march to the Ecole Publique de Deido roundabout. Localized transportation disruptions are likely in the vicinity of the gatherings and violence cannot be ruled out.

Context

According to an SDF spokesperson, the demonstration is being organized in support of Anglophone activists as well as to condemn the recent government crackdown on popular unrest, including violent home searches and armed roadblocks.

Simmering resentment that dates back to independence has resurfaced within the minority Anglophone community in Cameroon over the past year, sparked by the central government’s decision in November 2016 to not translate a law into English. The period since November has been marked by the closure of all English-speaking schools, strikes, unrest, and sporadic violence. Tensions between English and French-speaking communities have escalated considerably in recent weeks. While some protesters have called for independence for Anglophone Cameroon, others conversely demand better integration and an end to the political and economic marginalization of the region.

The government has responded with a heightened security presence and the implementation of curfews with little warning. The recent unrest has prompted the US Embassy in Yaoundé to advise its citizens and embassy staff to defer all nonessential travel to the Southwest and Northwest regions, home to the majority of the Anglophone community. The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has also released a travel warning advising against nonessential travel to Bamenda in Northwest region and Buea in Southwest region.

Advice

Individuals in Cameroon are advised to closely monitor the situation, adhere to advice issued by local authorities or their home governments, and avoid any protests or large gatherings due to the risk of associated violence.