Lawyer Me Kegne was denied access to Bagangté prison this Monday while attempting to visit his clients, who are political detainees. This incident raises serious questions about the respect for the right to defense in Cameroon.
Me Kegne, who came specifically from Douala, encountered a series of obstacles upon arrival. First, he was denied access to the prison parking lot, forcing him to park several hundred meters from the entrance under intense sun. Then, the guards demanded additional documents, including a permit to communicate issued by the government commissioner in Bafoussam and a letter of constitution. Despite presenting his professional card and the procedural file containing the detention order for his clients, access was categorically denied.
Faced with this refusal, Me Kegne tried to speak with a supervisor but was threatened with brutality if he persisted. This intimidation forced him to turn back, unable to fulfill his professional mission. According to Me Kegne, this is not the first time he has encountered difficulties with the Bagangté prison administration. He recounts that he had previously had issues with the prison warden for filming and posting images of the facility on social media.
Obstruction of the right to defense is a fundamental principle in a state governed by the rule of law. A lawyer must be able to meet with his detained clients freely, in compliance with procedures. Requiring additional documents beyond the professional card and procedural documents constitutes a clear obstruction. Me Kegne was accompanied by Serge Branco NANA, a witness to the scene, whose presence could corroborate the facts if the matter were brought before the competent authorities.
This case highlights the challenges faced by lawyers in practicing their profession in Cameroon, particularly when it comes to defending political detainees. The attitude of the Bagangté prison staff raises questions about the independence of the judiciary and respect for the rights of litigants. The lawyer left without being able to meet with his clients, leaving open the question of access to a fair defense for all.
