The United Nations has expressed alarm over escalating human rights violations in Cameroon and Namibia. Both nations are parties to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
The UN Committee Against Torture released its findings on November 22, following a review conducted between October 28 and November 22. Other countries reviewed during this session included Jordan, Kuwait, Mongolia, and Thailand.
In Cameroon, the UN raised concerns about severe rights abuses, including excessive force, intimidation, arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings. The government’s crackdown on English-speaking separatists has reportedly exacerbated these issues.
Namibia also faced criticism for prolonged pretrial detention, which often exceeds legal limits. The UN highlighted this as a violation of international standards for fair treatment and justice.
The findings underscore the urgent need for both governments to address these violations and comply with international human rights conventions. Civil society groups and human rights defenders continue to call for accountability and reforms.