The Death of Cameroon’s Opposition Leader Exposes Global Disregard for Political Freedom

At 74, Anicet Ekane, the leading opposition figure in Cameroon, died after weeks of imprisonment under suspicious conditions—a stark reminder that the fight for liberty is far from over on the global stage. His death following apparent denial of proper medical care shines a light on how entrenched authoritarian regimes crush political opposition with impunity, leaving families and citizens voiceless and vulnerable. Ekane was detained alongside other members of his African Movement for New Independence and Democracy amid protests against alleged election fraud, challenging the rule of Paul Biya—the world’s oldest ruler at 92—who clings to power through questionable means....