Alice Nkom Found Guilty of Breaking Seals, REDHAC Leaders Acquitted

The legal proceedings against Alice Nkom and Maximilienne Ngo Mbe began in December 2024, following the breaking of seals placed on the offices of the Réseau des défenseurs des droits humains en Afrique centrale (REDHAC) by the Wouri prefect. The case was initiated by the public prosecutor, leading to accusations of rebellion against the two leaders. This incident highlighted ongoing tensions between human rights organizations and government authorities in Cameroon.

The trial culminated in a verdict delivered on September 21, 2026, at the Douala-Bonanjo court. The case drew significant attention due to the implications for human rights advocacy in Cameroon, where government actions against such organizations are often scrutinized. The outcome was seen as a pivotal moment for REDHAC and its leadership.

The court found Alice Nkom guilty of breaking administrative seals, resulting in a one-year suspended sentence. This ruling was significant as it marked a legal acknowledgment of the actions taken against REDHAC's offices. In contrast, Maximilienne Ngo Mbe was acquitted of all charges, reflecting a split decision in the court's judgment.

The verdict was delivered by the Tribunal de Première Instance, which operates in correctional matters. The ruling has sparked discussions about the implications for human rights defenders in Cameroon, particularly regarding the legal risks they face when challenging government actions. Observers noted that the outcome could influence future cases involving human rights organizations.

The verdict has elicited mixed reactions from various stakeholders, including human rights activists and legal experts. Supporters of Nkom expressed disappointment over her conviction, viewing it as a setback for human rights advocacy in Cameroon. Conversely, some government officials hailed the ruling as a necessary enforcement of the law regarding administrative procedures.

International human rights organizations have also weighed in, calling for a review of the case and expressing concerns about the implications for freedom of expression and the safety of human rights defenders in Cameroon. The case is likely to remain a focal point in discussions about the legal environment for civil society in the country.