Police halt anti-Biya leaflets distribution

Security forces in Cameroon have stopped opposition activists from distributing anti-Biya leaflets in Douala.

The leaflets were calling on the President, Paul Biya not to contest the 2018 presidential elections.

The leaflets were being distributed by activists from the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM).

“It’s a pity that the police have stopped the operation. I don’t know under who’s instruction. We have a right to distribute our leaflets but they have retrieved them,” said Dieudonne Yebga, leader of the Manidem movement.

The activists are calling on the head of state to step down when his current term ends but there are no signs the 82-year-old leader will budge.

“He is already old. We advise him to leave and not to stand again. It’s a simple advice we are giving him,” said Anicet Ekane, a former presidential aspirant.

Paul Biya who served as Prime Minister of Cameroon from 1975 to 1982 has held on to power since becoming president in 1982.