Marafa Hamidou Yaya Decries Political Persecution and Institutionalized Violence in Cameroon

Marafa Hamidou Yaya, a former minister in Cameroon who has been incarcerated since 2012 for alleged embezzlement, has spoken out against what he claims is political persecution and institutionalized violence in the country. Yaya, 71, is the only one out of six individuals convicted in the case who remains in prison, a fact he attributes to politically motivated detention.

In an interview, Yaya described the harsh realities of his extended imprisonment, including the denial of adequate medical care for his deteriorating health. Yaya is battling glaucoma and has already lost his right eye, with specialists recommending urgent treatment abroad to save his remaining vision. However, his repeated appeals for medical evacuation have gone unanswered by the authorities, which Yaya considers a form of torture.

Yaya expressed regret for trusting the Cameroonian justice system and lamented being denied permission to see his wife in her final days, citing political motives behind the decision. He criticized the manipulation of the judiciary and the disillusionment it has caused among Cameroonians, calling on President Paul Biya to uphold the constitution and ensure judicial independence.

Why this matters: Yaya's case highlights the challenges faced by political detainees in Cameroon and raises concerns about human rights violations and the rule of law in the country. His testimony sheds light on the need for reforms to address systemic issues and ensure fair treatment for all individuals.

Yaya denounced the use of torture under Biya's regime, citing the murders of his former colleague Christiane Soppo and journalist Martinez Zogo as examples of the extreme violence and institutionalized injustice in Cameroon. He warned that those perceived as threats by those in power risk losing their freedom or their lives. 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 address the regime's crimes and bring about fundamental changes in Cameroonian society.

Key Takeaways

• Marafa Hamidou Yaya, a former Cameroonian minister, claims political persecution and violence.
• Yaya is the only one of six convicted individuals still imprisoned, citing political motives.
• Yaya is denied medical care for his deteriorating health, which he considers a form of torture.
• Yaya criticizes the manipulation of the judiciary and calls for judicial independence in Cameroon.
• Yaya proposes a "Truth, Reconciliation, and Refoundation Commission" to address the regime's crimes.