Journalists face detention and censorship in Gabon and Cameroon

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for the reinstatement of Info241, a private news outlet in Gabon, following its indefinite suspension by the country’s media regulator, the High Authority for Communication (HAC). The suspension was triggered by an article reporting on allegations made by a Europe-based activist regarding President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. While the HAC characterized the publication as disseminating malicious and unproven insinuations, Info241’s publishing director, Cédrin Mounziégou, argued that reporting on public accusations is not an endorsement of them and noted that the outlet was not given a chance to defend itself.

In Cameroon, CPJ is also demanding the release of journalist George Atabong Lekeaka, who has been held incommunicado since August 11. Lekeaka was detained after publishing a photograph of security officers on patrol during clashes between military forces and separatist fighters in Buea. His lawyer has filed a habeas corpus petition to determine his whereabouts, as authorities have reportedly denied him access to legal counsel or family members.