The African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM) announced on February 23, 2026, that it had taken note of the Cameroonian authorities' decision to return the remains of its president, Anicet Ekane, to his family [cite: ]. This announcement ends a period of high tension between the deceased's relatives and the government, following Anicet Ekane's death on December 1, 2025, while in detention [cite: ].
Anicet Ekane, a leading figure in the Cameroonian opposition, was arrested in October 2025 [cite: ]. His death in detention sparked strong criticism, particularly regarding the conditions of his detention and access to care [cite: ]. MANIDEM denounces a "cold killing" and a three-month "confiscation and desecration" of their president's body.
In a statement signed by Bedimo Kouo, National Secretary for Communication of MANIDEM, the party emphasizes that this restitution comes after months of demands. MANIDEM thanks the family's lawyers, Masters Hyppolite MELI and Emmanuel SIMH, as well as all those who mobilized to denounce the conditions of Anicet Ekane's arrest and death.
The party also announced the establishment of a funeral organization committee, which will soon release a program to pay tribute to the "patriot-martyr Anicet Ekane." MANIDEM calls for the mobilization of all forces concerned with progress in this difficult time.
Anicet Ekane's death in detention had rekindled political tensions in Cameroon. A leading figure in the opposition since the 1990s, Ekane was a virulent critic of the government. His death sparked strong reactions both nationally and internationally.
MANIDEM, founded by Anicet Ekane, is a Cameroonian political party that advocates for a new independence and democracy in Africa. The party has been marked by internal crises, including a leadership crisis in 2018. Despite these difficulties, MANIDEM continues to play a role in the Cameroonian political landscape.
The return of Anicet Ekane's remains represents an important step after months of mourning and tension. The upcoming funeral is expected to be a time of reflection and tribute to the memory of this figure of the Cameroonian opposition.
