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Opposition Activists Jailed in Cameroon

A military tribunal have sentenced 47 opposition party members to between one and seven years in jail for rebellion and attempted insurrection. Police arrested the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC), supporters in September 2020 while they were planning protests against the 40-year rule of President Paul Biya. More than 500 civilians who protested the crackdown were also arrested.

Biya is Africa's second longest ruling leader. He is accused by closest presidential rival in the October 2018 presidential election  Professor Maurice Kamto, of stealing the election from him. 

President of the opposition United Socialist Democratic Party, Prince Ekosso, witnessed the military tribunal's sentencing. He says the ruling shows that Biya will crush opponents to maintain his grip on power. Rights group Amnesty International accused the Biya government of relentless repression of opposition members.

InFocus

Abdulaziz Toro/VOA

Cameroon President Paul Biya (file photo).

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