(RSF/IFEX) – RSF is expressing concern further to the threats received by journalist Nyemb Ntoogue, also known as Nyemb Popoli. According to RSF’s information, the chief editor of the bi-weekly “Le Messager – Popoli” has received a number of death threats in recent weeks. He was told over the telephone to choose between “abandoning his […]
(RSF/IFEX) – RSF is expressing concern further to the threats received by
journalist Nyemb Ntoogue, also known as Nyemb Popoli. According to RSF’s
information, the chief editor of the bi-weekly “Le Messager – Popoli” has
received a number of death threats in recent weeks. He was told over the
telephone to choose between “abandoning his career as a journalist and death
by machete.” Unknown assailants also came to his home to terrorise his
family. Fearing he may be the target of even more serious reprisals, Popoli
decided to leave his country on 14 December 1998.
Author of many drawings and caricatures critical of the government, Popoli
has been the victim of numerous threats in recent years (see IFEX alert of
28 September 1995). His newspaper, “Popoli”, as well as the main edition of
“Le Messager”, have been repeatedly banned and censured. The press group’s
director, Pius Njawé, was freed on 12 October after having spent ten months
in prison, charged with spreading false information” (see IFEX alert of 13
October 1998 and others).
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
seeking to identify and punish the responsible parties
and in a safe environment in Cameroon
Appeals To
Mr. Paul Biya
President of the Republic
Office of the President
Yaoundé, Cameroun
Fax: +237 23 30 33 / 22 12 99 / 23 00 05
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
