Cameroon President Refuses Medical Evacuation for Jailed Former Official

Marafa Hamidou Yaya, a former Cameroonian government official imprisoned since 2012, has been denied a medical evacuation by President Paul Biya despite confidential requests, according to an exclusive interview. Yaya, who is losing his sight and requires a "last-chance operation" abroad, believes his continued detention and the refusal of medical care are politically motivated.

Yaya was convicted of "intellectual complicity" in the embezzlement of public funds without any evidence of misappropriation or personal enrichment. The United Nations has called for his immediate release since 2016, and the United States and other countries have listed him as a political prisoner. "I have submitted several requests to the President of the Republic for a medical evacuation to undergo an operation to prevent me from going blind," Yaya stated. "These requests have gone unanswered."

In the interview, Yaya denounced his detention conditions and declining health, stating that he is the only one of six convicted individuals still in prison. He also criticized the use of torture under President Biya's regime, citing the assassination of his former collaborator Christiane Soppo and the death of journalist Martinez Zogo. "If those in power perceive you as a threat, you will pay with your freedom or your life," Yaya warned.

Why this matters: The case highlights concerns about political imprisonment, human rights abuses, and the lack of judicial independence in Cameroon. It also emphasizes the deteriorating health conditions faced by some prisoners and the pressing need for medical care.

Despite his fragile health and difficult detention conditions, Yaya remains hopeful for Cameroon's future and is determined to continue his fight for democracy and human rights. He has proposed the establishment of a "Truth, Reconciliation, and Refoundation Commission" to shed light on the regime's alleged crimes and foster national healing. Yaya expressed a continued desire to serve his country and called for a collective effort to rebuild the nation.

Key Takeaways

• Marafa Hamidou Yaya, a Cameroonian official, denied medical evacuation by President Biya.
• Yaya was convicted of "intellectual complicity" in embezzlement without evidence, per UN.
• Yaya denounces detention conditions, declining health, and use of torture under Biya's regime.
• Yaya proposes a "Truth, Reconciliation, and Refoundation Commission" to address alleged crimes.
• Case highlights concerns about political imprisonment, human rights, and judicial independence in Cameroon.