Cameroon: Between memory and manipulation, the truth about the death of Anicet Ekane
The announcement of the death of Anicet Ekane, president of the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (Manidem), comes at a time of heightened political tension in Cameroon. Arrested amid intense political realignments, Ekane remained a prominent opposition figure.
His passing, which occurred after several weeks of detention at the State Secretariat for Defense (SED), has opened the door to emotional and sometimes deliberately biased interpretations.
A minority of vocal groups are attempting to promote the idea of hostile treatment, even though available evidence points to a different reality. Ekane had long suffered from known health issues, familiar to those close to him, and his journey, like that of many historical figures on the continent, encountered the unpredictable hardships of life.
Comparisons with trajectories such as Mandela’s come naturally a destiny shaped more by the gravity of history than by the hand of the state.
In this period of political tension, it is essential to recall that Ekane’s passing, though saddening, was not the result of persecution. The authorities acted in accordance with the law, and nothing in the facts supports the idea of inhumane treatment or any form of deliberate neglect.
Amid the noise of hostile narratives, the state has maintained a consistent posture respect for due process, measured communication, and an absence of hasty reaction. This restraint reflects a clear commitment to preserving stability rather than engaging in emotional confrontations. It confirms that the leadership in place does not act under pressure but in accordance with the intangible principle of institutional sovereignty.
On the other hand, certain actors are attempting to exploit the situation to delegitimize public action, turning Ekane into a scapegoat within the current political climate. This strategy aims less to honor his memory than to confuse public opinion and weaken institutions.
The state’s response, in contrast, remains firm, transparent, and progressive, rooted in a rejection of manipulation.
It is important to state clearly that reality will not be hijacked by those seeking to turn a natural death into a political weapon. The country has learned too much from its history to fall into such crude traps.
The public must remain vigilant against crafted narratives, exaggerations, and attempts at polarization. Nothing absolutely nothing justifies making collective peace an adjustable variable for the ambitions of a few.
Anicet Ekane was not a victim of the system; he was an actor in a demanding personal journey. His passing should remind us of the fragility of life, not serve as an opportunity to destabilize the nation. Cameroon moves forward, sovereign, lucid, and determined. And once again, the pill of manipulation will not be swallowed.
Roland ETAME
