LGBTQ+ Advocate in Cameroon Confronts Legal Challenges Amidst Accusations

Cameroonian LGBTQ+ Advocate Faces Legal Challenges

In Cameroon, a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, who has been a vocal critic of the government's human rights record, is currently facing terrorism charges. Alice Nkom, a distinguished human rights lawyer and head of the Human Rights Defenders Network in Central Africa (Redhac), was summoned by the National Gendarmerie, the national military intelligence of Cameroon, on January 2.

The summons arose following a complaint lodged by Lilian Engoulou, the general coordinator of the Observatory for Societal Development. Engoulou accused Nkom of endangering state security, financially supporting terrorism, and funding separatist movements in Cameroon's northwest and southwest regions. These regions have been embroiled in a struggle for independence from the central government.

Alice Nkom has been an outspoken advocate for human rights, including LGBTQ+ rights, in a country where same-sex sexual relations are criminalized under Section 347 of the penal code, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison. In a recent development, Cameroonian authorities suspended Redhac and sealed its offices, citing concerns over the organization's alleged illegal funding and non-compliance with regulations governing non-governmental organizations.

Despite the government's actions, Nkom removed the seals on Redhac's offices, prompting further legal action. Authorities in Littoral province issued a summons on December 19 after Nkom did not appear for a scheduled inquiry. She has described the entire process as a "political witch hunt," asserting that the Observatory for Societal Development, the entity behind the complaint, is an organization she does not recognize.

Nkom vehemently defends her actions, arguing that the authorities' attempts to seal her organization's offices were illegal, and she acted within her rights. Speaking on the matter, she stated, "Human rights defenders may be vulnerable, but they stand firm against the authoritarian tendencies of the state. We are all connected by a shared dignity."

Support for Nkom has come from notable figures, including Maurice Kamto, a prominent critic of President Paul Biya and leader of the opposition Cameroon Renaissance Movement. Kamto, himself a lawyer, offered to represent Nkom pro bono, emphasizing the importance of her voice in Cameroon's public sphere. "It is unacceptable for her to be subjected to judicial and political harassment," Kamto declared.

Cameroon has a history of arresting and torturing individuals for engaging in consensual same-sex relationships. A report by Human Rights Watch highlighted that between February and April 2021, at least 27 individuals, including minors, were arrested for alleged same-sex conduct or gender nonconformity. Those detained often faced brutal treatment.

The legal battle for LGBTQ+ rights in Cameroon remains a challenging one, as Nkom prepares to appear before the National Gendarmerie on January 14, which coincides with her 80th birthday. Her case highlights the broader struggle for human rights and equality in a region where LGBTQ+ individuals face severe repression.

The situation is further complicated by social dynamics, as demonstrated by the controversy surrounding Brenda Biya, the daughter of President Paul Biya. Last year, Brenda posted a picture of herself with her former partner, Layyons Valença, expressing a desire to live peacefully as a couple. The post was later removed due to public backlash.

As Nkom continues her fight, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that respects human rights and dignity. Her courage in the face of adversity inspires many, both in Cameroon and around the world, to continue advocating for equality and justice.