Georges Anicet Ekane, a prominent figure in the Cameroonian opposition, was laid to rest in Bomono Gare this Saturday, May 9, 2026. Family, activists, political figures, and ordinary citizens gathered to pay their last respects to the former president of the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM).
Ekane's death on December 1, 2025, while in detention following his arrest during the socio-political unrest in October, continues to spark emotion and debate. His relatives and supporters honor the memory of a man they consider a leading figure in the opposition and a committed advocate for his beliefs.
Throughout the day, attendees accompanied the man who, for several decades, was a well-known voice in the Cameroonian opposition. According to sources, Ekane died in detention after being deprived of his respiratory equipment amidst the post-election crisis. Before his arrest, he contested the results of an election he believed Issa Tchiroma Bakary had won, accusing various institutions of manipulating the results in favor of President Paul Biya.
Although his wish to be buried in Bafoussam, near Ernest Ouandié, was not fulfilled, tributes were paid to him in recognition of his place in public opinion. For many of his followers, he will remain a figure of political resistance and a symbol of commitment.
However, tensions arose surrounding the organization of his funeral. MANIDEM officially broke with Issa Tchiroma Bakary following the latter's publication of Ekane's funeral program. The party denounces this act as a betrayal of MANIDEM's values and objectives, calling on its activists to boycott the funeral ceremonies.
The Movement for the Renaissance of Cameroon (MRC), the party of Maurice Kamto, also announced its non-participation in the funeral organized by Muna Ekane, the son of the deceased. Family divisions also emerged, with some family members and Ekane's last wife not attending the ceremonies.
Despite these divisions, the funeral of Georges Anicet Ekane was an opportunity to pay him a final tribute and recall his role in Cameroon's political history. His legacy continues to inspire those who aspire to a more just and democratic Cameroon.
