Your Excellency,

The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (www.ituc-africa.org), representing 18 million workers across 52 African countries, including Cameroon, expresses its grave concern over the arbitrary arrest and detention of trade union leaders and members in Cameroon.
According to the information brought to our attention, several trade union leaders were arrested and detained by security forces while carrying out legitimate trade union activities aimed at defending workers’ rights and improving labour conditions.

These arrests, conducted without due process and in violation of national labour laws and international obligations, represent a serious infringement of fundamental human and trade union rights. Cameroon is a signatory to ILO Conventions 87 and 98, which guarantee the rights to freedom of association, collective bargaining, and protection against anti-union discrimination.

Such actions constitute a serious attack on the fundamental rights of workers and undermine social dialogue, peace, and democracy in the workplace. ITUC-Africa firmly believes that the right to organise, express grievances, and advocate for better working and living conditions is an inalienable right that must be protected and respected at all times.

Your Excellency,
In view of these concerns, ITUC-Africa respectfully urges your office to intervene for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained trade unionists and the cessation of all acts of intimidation, harassment, and repression against trade unions in Cameroon.

Your Excellency,
This situation constitutes a grave attack on workers’ rights and threatens the democratic space necessary for promoting decent work and social justice. We therefore urge your office to engage in genuine social dialogue with trade union organisations to address workers’ grievances peacefully and constructively.
We trust that your high office will act promptly to restore the rule of law, respect for fundamental rights, and the dignity of trade union representatives in Cameroon.

Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of our highest consideration.
Yours sincerely,
Akhator Joel Odigie,
General Secretary