Cameroon's Ministry of Defense has released the findings of the administrative inquiry and autopsy report into the death of Anicet Georges Ekane, which occurred on December 1, 2025, in Yaoundé.
According to a statement signed by Vessel Captain Cyrille Atonfack Guemo, Ekane, 74, the president of MANIDEM, died at the National Gendarmerie Military Medical Center. His death followed his alleged involvement in protests in Douala after the presidential election on October 12, 2025. A judicial investigation was underway at the time of his death.
A forensic autopsy was conducted, with additional examinations carried out at the University Centre of Legal Medicine in Switzerland. The report, submitted on February 23, 2026, concluded that there were no traumatic injuries and highlighted serious pre-existing pathologies. The experts formally concluded that the death was due to natural causes.
The Government Commissioner ordered the lifting of the seals, allowing the remains to be returned to the rightful claimants by the management of the Yaoundé Central Hospital.
MANIDEM has stated that it acknowledges the return of the remains of its leader. Anicet Ekane was arrested on October 24 for allegedly organizing anti-government protests. His lawyers had reported that he suffered from severe respiratory problems prior to his arrest and that his health deteriorated while in detention.
