Cameroon: Threat of eviction for being a homosexual
A press release (modestly edited below) from Douala-based Alternatives-Cameroon, which fights against Aids and for recognition of the human rights of LGBTI people:
June 6, 2016
Cameroon: Threat of eviction for homosexuality
The Real Estate Company of Cameroon [La Société Immobilière du Cameroun] (SIC) has ordered Franz Mananga, executive director of Alternatives Cameroon, to leave its apartments, citing homosexuality as the reason for its decision.
The facts
On June 1, 2016, the Executive Director of Alternatives Cameroon, Mr. Franz Mananga, was summoned by the management of the Real Estate Company of Cameroon (which provides government-supported public housing) to discuss a matter of concern to him. On arriving at the offices of SIC, he was informed of a complaint brought against him by his neighbors for homosexuality!
Indeed, SIC management had been pressured by neighbors of Mr. Mananga on the ground that he is sharing an apartment with a man, living as a couple, and that furthermore the only private visitors he receives are men.
These neighbors therefore asked the SIC to expel Mr. Mananga in order to preserve moral order! Because this way of living could affect children dramatically!
Consequently, SIC has ordered Mr. Mananga to vacate the premises in a very short period of time under threat of forceful expulsion by police!
Illegality and discrimination
This is an approach which is contrary to the sovereign mission of SIC, including one to offer comfortable housing to all Cameroonians, without any discrimination.
This attitude contradicts the statements of the Minister of Communication, Issa Tchiroma, former spokesman for the Government, who claimed at a press conference on Thursday, January 23, 2014: “There is no harassment against homosexuals in Cameroon.”
Once more, Alternatives Cameroon:
- Denounces this action of SIC against homosexuals in Cameroon;
- Condemns threats and discrimination against citizens of Cameroon due to their sexual orientation, real or presumed;
- Calls on Cameroon’s authorities to take necessary measures to end threats for suspicion of “homosexuality.”
Related articles:
- LGBTI activists challenge Cameroon police harassment (April 14, 2016, 76crimes.com)
- Support for imperiled LGBTI activists in Cameroon (April 14, 2016, 76crimes.com)
- One arrest, one scam, one threat in Cameroon (76crimes.com)
- Another attack on a Cameroon activist; a plea for help (76crimes.com)
- Cameroon: Life of a gay activist turns to drama (76crimes.com)
- Quick response to new anti-gay persecution in Cameroon (76crimes.com)
- Cameroon police arrest LGBT activist, block AIDS clinic (76crimes.com)
- Cameroon: Human rights plea provokes death threat (76crimes.com)