Guy Bruno Maimo, a third-year student of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Buea, was arrested while covering a women’s protest in Buea on October 24, 2024. The protest involved women from Maumu village demanding the release of their detained relatives. Maimo, who was reporting for the Volcanic Times, was detained at the South West Gendarmerie headquarters, known as Legion. His arrest highlights the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Cameroon, where covering protests or events perceived as opposing the government can lead to harassment, detention, or worse.
Maimo’s arrest has sparked outrage among his peers and human rights organizations, who are calling for his immediate release and condemning the actions of the authorities. The incident underscores the precarious situation for journalists in Cameroon, where freedom of the press is often under threat. Despite the risks, many journalists continue to report on critical issues, demonstrating their commitment to informing the public and holding those in power accountable.
The women’s protest itself was a significant event, drawing attention to the plight of families affected by the ongoing conflict in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon. The women from Maumu village were demanding the release of their relatives, who they claim have been unjustly detained by security forces. Their protest is part of a broader movement seeking justice and accountability for human rights abuses in the region.
This incident is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by both journalists and ordinary citizens in Cameroon. It highlights the need for greater protections for journalists and the importance of upholding the right to freedom of expression. The international community has also been urged to take notice of these issues and support efforts to improve the human rights situation in Cameroon.
Student Journalist Arrested While Covering Women’s Protest in Buea
