The Commission recalls that the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights (AChHPR), adopted on 27 June 1981, in Nairobi, Kenya, during the 18th Conference of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), and which came into force for Cameroon after its signature on 23 July 1987, and ratification on 20 June 1989, provides in its Article 9(1) and (2) that “every individual shall have the right to receive information [as well as] the right to express and disseminate his opinions within the limits of laws and regulations”.

The Commission highlights that some official information is still published in only one of the two official languages, hindering access to information for non-bilingual citizens. This violates Article 1(3) of the Constitution of Cameroon of 18 January 1996, which stipulates that "the official languages of the Republic of Cameroon shall be English and French, both languages having the same status [and] the State shall guarantee the promotion of bilingualism throughout the country".

The Commission notes and deplores the fact that access to information is severely restricted in regions affected by insecurity as a result of the Boko Haram terrorist activities in the Far North Region and repeated attacks by secessionist terrorists in the North-West and South-West Regions. This situation hampers people's access to public services, decision-making processes, and opportunities to engage in political, socio-economic and cultural life. 

The Commission remains concerned about the difficulties journalists face in the terrorism-stricken areas, particularly as regards the collection and dissemination of information, which hamper the exercise of their profession.

The Commission reiterates its recommendations to the Government made during the previous International Day for Universal Access to Information particularly the recommendation to submit to Parliament a bill on citizens' free access to information.

The Commission reiterates its recommendation calling on the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications (MINPOSTEL), and the Telecommunications Regulatory Board (ART) to ensure the stability of telephone and Internet networks as well as on The Energy of Cameroon (ENEO), the driving force of the electricity sector in Cameroon, to guarantee a constant supply of electricity.

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