CAMEROON GRILLED BY UN EXPERTS OVER MARTINEZ ZOGO CASE, MILITARY JUSTICE AND ARBITRARY DETENTIONS

26 Oct 2026 15:16 • 1 source

Summary

From the unresolved killing of journalist Martinez Zogo to the trial of civilians in military courts, corruption and the criminalisation of homosexuality, Cameroon faced a series of pressing questions from United Nations human rights experts in Geneva. The government defended its legal framework but acknowledged that gaps could exist between the law and its implementation on the ground. Cameroon has come under renewed international scrutiny after its delegation faced a demanding examination by the United Nations Human Rights Committee in Geneva on Thursday, October 22, 2026. The session focused on the country's compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, placing several sensitive human rights issues under the spotlight. Led by Cameroon's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, the delegation was confronted with questions about the security situation in the North-West, South-West and Far North regions, the fight against corruption, allegations of arbitrary detention and the treatment of sexual minorities. The high-profile case involving the assassination of journalist Martinez Zogo also featured prominently, alongside concerns over the use of military courts to try civilians. The exchanges placed Yaoundé in the spotlight as international experts sought clarification on the country's legal safeguards, institutional practices and efforts to uphold fundamental rights. MARTINEZ ZOGO CASE AND MILITARY TRIALS UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT One of the most sensitive issues raised during the examination was the use of military courts to prosecute civilians, a practice that has attracted criticism from human rights advocates.

Sources

• List It Africa Insights