The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has announced it is in deep mourning following the death of Cameroonian opposition figure Comrade Anicet Ekane, who died while in state detention under what the group describes as “state-sponsored neglect.”
According to PFF’s statement posted on X, Ekane was arrested on October 24th after taking part in protests against what opposition groups termed rigged elections in Cameroon.
His party, MANIDEM, alleges that despite his worsening condition, Ekane was systematically denied medication and medical attention—an omission PFF says amounts to deliberate murder.
PFF praised Ekane as a committed and courageous voice in Cameroon’s long struggle for democratic reform under President Paul Biya’s 43-year rule.
“We honor his memory and his commitment to the struggle for true democracy and freedom in Cameroon. His sacrifice will not be in vain,” the statement reads.
PFF argues that Ekane’s death is emblematic of the systemic use of imprisonment and poor detention conditions by authoritarian governments across Africa to silence dissenting voices.
The group drew parallels with what it says is ongoing political persecution in Uganda, pointing to the continued detention of their own leaders, Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale, who have been incarcerated for a year.
“The jail cell, the denial of medical care, and trumped-up charges are the tools of autocrats terrified of the people’s will,” PFF said.
The Front expressed solidarity with the people of Cameroon and called for an immediate, independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Ekane’s death. It also renewed its demand for the release of all political prisoners in Uganda and across the continent.
Closing its message on a tone of defiance, PFF reaffirmed its commitment to continental liberation struggles:
“Freedom is not given, it is taken. The struggle continues!”