Cameroon Prohibits Media from Discussing President Biya’s Health

Cameroon’s government has banned media discussions about the health of 91-year-old President Paul Biya, who has been absent from public view since early September. Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji issued the directive, stating that media debates on Biya’s health are a “matter of national security” and warning of legal consequences for violators. He then directed the establishment of monitoring cells to track online content. Biya was last seen at the China-Africa summit, which took place in Beijing last month. He has since missed several key international events, including the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Last week, government spokesperson Rene Sadi dismissed rumors about the president’s condition, insisting Biya is in good health and will return to Cameroon soon. Nevertheless, the media ban has been criticized as censorship, with journalists arguing that citizens have a right to be informed.

SOURCE: AL JAZEERA