US Expresses Concern Over Violence In Cameroon

The United States Government on Tuesdayexpressed concern over protests in Bamenda and Buea communities ofCameroon that later resulted in peoples deaths, injuries anddestruction of property.Mr John Kirby, U.S. Department of States Assistant Secretary andSpokesperson said in a statement that his government would want theCameroonian Government to protect and defend the peoples rights.The United States is deeply concerned by the loss of life, injuriesand damage as a result of protests that turned violent in Bamenda andBuea, in Cameroon.We are also concerned over the recent Cameroonian governments actionsto restrict free expression and peaceful assembly.We call on all parties to exercise restraint, refrain from furtherviolence, and engage in dialogue, for a peaceful resolution to thecurrent protests.The United States also urges the Government of Cameroon to protect anddefend human rights and fundamental freedoms, ensure that all voicesare heard and respected, he said.The U.S. official also said that his government was also worried overthe ten-year prison sentences for persons who exchanged textsreferencing Boko Haram.Kirby also said the U.S. was concerned about the arrest of 54 membersof the opposition Cameroon Peoples Party, while they were peacefullyholding their partys meeting.The constitution of Cameroon guarantees freedoms of expression,association and peaceful assembly.We believe that non-threatening rhetoric and activities, especiallyprivate conversations and gatherings, warrant neither prosecution norgovernment censure, he added. (NAN)
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