The family of Cameroonian opposition figure Anicet Ekané has rejected the authorities’ decision to conduct an autopsy on his body, deeming the move “hasty” and made without proper consultation. Ekané, a prominent voice against the current regime, died while in custody, sparking widespread condemnation.
According to Hippolyte Meli, the family’s lawyer, the death was registered on Tuesday, but the framework for the investigation has yet to be defined. “This haste is worrying us,” Meli stated, emphasizing that the family is demanding an “independent and credible autopsy” to uncover the circumstances surrounding Ekané’s death.
This stance comes amid growing domestic and international calls for a transparent investigation into the circumstances of Ekané’s death while detained at the General Secretariat of Defense headquarters in Yaoundé. Concerns are mounting over human rights conditions and increasing international pressure on the Cameroonian authorities.
Ekané was arrested on October 24, 2025, following the unrest that followed the recent elections and had been detained at the General Secretariat of Defense since then. His death in custody has triggered shock and widespread debate, with increasing calls for investigations into detention conditions and treatment within detention centers.
The European Union delegation issued a statement on December 1 expressing “regret and concern” over the death of Anicet Ekané, calling on the authorities to clarify the circumstances of the incident and ensure respect for the fundamental rights of detainees. France has echoed this position, reflecting the widening international pressure on Yaoundé amid rising criticism of the human rights situation.
Ekané’s death, known for his firm political stance, is fueling further tension in Cameroon. The electoral crisis is intertwined with external pressure and internal demands to end what the opposition describes as “systematic violations.” The call for an independent investigation is now at the forefront of demands from activists and international bodies. The government has yet to respond to the family’s request.
