"Caught in the Crossfire: The Impact of Military Rule and Economic Decline in Cameroon’s Anglophone Regions"

The Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon have been experiencing severe unrest and human rights violations, particularly since the onset of the Anglophone Crisis. The government has struggled to maintain control, leading to a situation where the military effectively runs these regions, often bypassing legal processes and engaging in abuses.

Military Control and Arbitrary Arrests

Reports indicate that the military has taken on a dominant role in these regions, with soldiers reportedly choosing who to arrest and determining the fate of detainees without judicial oversight. This has resulted in a significant number of arbitrary arrests, with many civilians living in fear of being labeled as separatists and subsequently imprisoned. The courts in these areas have become increasingly politicized, further complicating the legal landscape for those accused of dissent.

Human Rights Violations

Numerous human rights organizations have documented serious abuses by the military, including unlawful killings, torture, and the establishment of secret detention centers. For instance, Human Rights Watch has reported on summary executions and other abuses during military operations in the region. Amnesty International has highlighted the political nature of the judiciary, which has failed to protect the rights of civilians caught in the conflict.

Fear of Military Coup and Civilian Impact

The Cameroonian government appears to be hesitant to rein in military actions, possibly due to fears of a coup d'état. This has led to a climate of impunity where military personnel can act without accountability. Civilians are frequently subjected to extortion, being forced out of their vehicles and coerced into paying bribes to avoid being labeled as separatists.

Military Enrichment and Corruption

Reports suggest that military generals deployed to these regions have become significantly wealthy during the conflict. This has led to widespread speculation that these same individuals may be fueling the war for personal gain. The military's control over resources and their involvement in illegal activities, such as extortion and smuggling, contribute to this perception. The lack of accountability and oversight allows military personnel to exploit the situation, further entrenching their power and wealth.The conflict has severely harmed the local economy, with many businesses shutting down and thousands of jobs lost. For instance, the Cameroon Development Corporation, a major employer in the region, has faced significant layoffs due to the ongoing violence. The economic degradation has led to a rural exodus, as people flee the violence and seek better opportunities in other regions, exacerbating the economic decline in the affected areas.
The intertwining of military interests and the ongoing conflict has created a vicious cycle where the war economy thrives at the expense of the civilian population. As military leaders profit from the chaos, the local economy continues to suffer, leaving many residents in dire circumstances. The situation underscores the urgent need for accountability and a resolution to the conflict to restore stability and economic viability in these regions.