The funeral of Anicet Ekane, president of the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (Manidem), took place on March 3, 2026, at the Yaoundé Central Hospital, without his children present, sparking outrage from Dr. Jean Crépin Nyamsi.
Dr. Nyamsi expressed his dissatisfaction with this situation, calling the ceremony a "kidnapping of the remains". He pointed out that Manidem, Anicet Ekane's widow, and Mariana Simonikova Ekanev organized the funeral without the presence of the deceased's children, which he considers a lack of respect for the family and the memory of the political leader.
In his publication, Dr. Nyamsi also deplored the absence of the Manidem flag on Anicet Ekane's coffin, as well as the lack of party scarves among the board members present. He suggested that financial motivations and external influences may have been behind these decisions, leading to a discreet and anonymous burial.
Anicet Ekane, a leading figure in the Cameroonian opposition, had been arrested in connection with the post-election crisis of 2025 and died in detention. An investigation had been ordered to clarify the circumstances of his death. According to a statement from the Ministry of Defense, an autopsy report concluded that the death was natural, in the absence of traumatic injuries and in the presence of serious pathologies.
The funeral of Anicet Ekane was authorized by the State after tensions regarding the organization of the ceremony. Differences of opinion between the stakeholders had created a climate of tension, leading the authorities to intervene to preserve public order.
The death of Anicet Ekane in detention had sparked strong reactions both in Cameroon and abroad. Voices were raised to denounce a systematic attack against the opposition and to demand an independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances of his death. The autopsy initially scheduled was postponed at the request of the family, who claimed they had not been consulted.
A leading figure in the Cameroonian opposition, Anicet Ekane spent more than 38 days in detention without trial and without access to appropriate medical care, according to his lawyers. His death aroused emotion and dismay within his party, Manidem, and among his supporters.
The controversy surrounding his funeral highlights the persistent tensions and divisions within the Cameroonian political scene. Dr. Nyamsi's accusations underscore the lack of unity and consensus surrounding the tribute to be paid to this iconic figure of the opposition.
