SDF condemns muzzling of the Press in Cameroon

The Social Democratic Front, SDF, has criticised the recent interrogations of three journalists; Felix Ebole Bola of Mutations, Rodrigue Tongue of Le Messager, and Baba Wame, lecturer at ESSTIC, at the Military Tribunal.

A press release issued by the communication department of the SDF Shadow Cabinet has suggested that judicial authorities should respect Article 50 (1) of Law No. 90/052 of 19 December 1990 on social communication in Cameroon. The said law stipulates that: “the protection of news sources is recognised and guaranteed to journalists and auxiliaries of the profession.”

Thus the SDF communiqué disagreed with the use of Article 107 of the Penal Code (general status) by the magistrates of the Military Tribunal, as opposed to Law No. 90/052, which holds a special status.

In addition, the SDF strongly advised that charges of “non denunciation of information that can destabilise the country’s security” meted on the trio be dropped with immediate effect.

Lastly, the major opposition party also recommended that Articles 74 and 107 of the Penal Code be revised to match up with the realities of the 21st Century.