Internet services were returned to two areas of Cameroon with English-speaking populations on Friday following a three-month shutdown, according to a state-run radio report. President Paul Biya had restricted Internet services in Northwest and Southwest regions of the country following violent, sometimes deadly, confrontations between English-speaking protesters and government officials in the mostly French-speaking African country. Restoration of the Internet follows condemnation over the shutdown from international human rights groups such as Amnesty International and Internet Without Borders.
Cameroon Communications Director said the Internet was being restored because the shutdown was no longer necessary, but the restrictions could be reimposed if protests continue.
The Government urges the populations of these Regions to be vigilant in order to continue to block the way for the extremists, secessionists and enemies of the Republic. It is understood that the Government of the Republic reserves the right to take, as necessary, appropriate measures to prevent the Internet from being used again to incite hatred and discord between Cameroonians or to create public order.
The shutdown began January 17, leading a UN human rights expert to refer to the situation as “an appalling violation of their right to freedom of expression.” The growing rift between the French and English speaking populations comes at a time when Cameroon faces many problems resulting from their military conflict with the terrorist group Boko Haram.
Source: jurist.org
