Cameroonian artist Longue Longue, known for his outspoken music addressing social and political issues, has ignited outrage in the country after a video of him being tortured surfaced.
The video, filmed after his arrest in 2019 but only recently shared with the public by the artist himself, shows Longue Longue handcuffed and sitting on the floor in his underwear while his bare feet are repeatedly struck with a machete.
Despite his pleas for the beating to stop, the alleged security agents continue the torture.
Longue Longue, now residing in France, revealed that he received the video from an undisclosed source in America. He expressed concerns for his safety and that of his family after receiving threats for planning to release the video.
The artist’s arrest in 2019 stemmed from his accusation that long-time President Paul Biya had rigged the 2018 election, asserting that opposition leader Maurice Kamto was the rightful winner. The Constitutional Council dismissed Kamto’s demand for a re-run, citing alleged irregularities.
Opposition figures, including Kamto, have denounced the brutal treatment of Longue Longue and called for an immediate investigation into the incident. Renowned human rights lawyer Akere Muna condemned the torture, emphasizing the need to address the impunity of security forces in Cameroon.
Critics have accused the government of stifling dissent and creating a climate of fear ahead of next year’s presidential election.
Rights groups have urged authorities to uphold human rights and ensure accountability for those responsible for acts of violence and torture.
