On January 11, 2022, Barrister Kemende, a Prominent Figure and Human Rights Advocate in Bamenda, Mezam State, Northern Ambazonia, was tragically targeted and killed by Cameroon Occupational Forces. This incident, emblematic of the ongoing war in Ambazonia, sent shockwaves through local and International Communities, highlighting the volatile environment faced by activists and public figures in Ambazonia.
Barrister Kemende was widely respected for his dedication to Justice and his Vocal Advocacy for the Rights of Ambazonian citizens amid the protracted war. His assassination, was a deliberate act by the Cameroonian Occupational Forces, underscores the dire Human Rights situation in the war-affected Ambazonia. He was attacked in circumstances that suggest premeditation, raising serious concerns about the safety of those who challenge or oppose Cameroon government policies.
This tragic event also underscores the broader climate of violence and repression that characterizes the war in Ambazonia. The ongoing war for independence by the Ambazonians has resulted in significant casualties, displacement, and human suffering over the years. Civilians, including lawyers, journalists, and other community leaders, often find themselves caught in crossfire, becoming targets for expressing dissent or advocating for peaceful resolution.
The killing of Barrister Kemende has drawn condemnation from various quarters, with Human Rights organizations and activists calling for an independent investigation into his death and greater accountability for abuses committed in the war. They emphasize the need for international attention to the war in Ambazonia and stronger measures to protect civilians and advocates of justice.
In the wake of this tragic event, the Ambazonian community mourns the loss of a courageous advocate whose work symbolized hope for many. His death serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing war for Justice, Human Rights, and Self-Determination in Ambazonia. It also highlights the urgency of finding a sustainable solution to the War, which continues to claim lives and fuel instability. The targeting of individuals like Barrister Kemende is not only a personal tragedy but also a stark indication of the broader challenges faced by those who dare to stand for justice in conflict zones.