Regulator Cites Violations in Vision 4’s Coverage

The CNC announced Vision 4 is barred from broadcasting any audiovisual content for 30 days. Authorities allege the station undermined their authority and failed to respond to an official summons. This marks the second sanction in four months for Vision 4, which had previously been penalized in June alongside journalist Martial Thaddée Owona and director Philippe Boni Menyene for airing a report deemed to contain statements damaging an attorney representing civil parties.

The regulator claims the June penalty was ineffective, pointing to new broadcasts that allegedly renewed attacks on the same attorney. The suspension has sparked debate about press freedom in Cameroon as the Martinez Zogo trial continues.

Additional Sanctions Against Amougou Belinga’s Media Group

In parallel action, the CNC suspended Jean-Claude Fouda Abega, publishing director of the daily L’Anecdote, for one month. The newspaper had published an article containing what authorities describe as unfounded, insulting, and offensive remarks targeting the same attorney.

Martinez Zogo Trial Continues Despite Media Crackdown

The sanctions come as the trial of Martinez Zogo progresses at the military tribunal in Yaoundé. The radio host was abducted on January 17, 2023, near a gendarmerie post in the capital. His body, found five days later, showed signs of torture. Amougou Belinga faces charges of complicity in kidnapping, torture, and murder. He is being tried alongside Léopold Maxime Eko Eko, former director of the External Research Directorate (DGRE), and Lieutenant Colonel Justin Danwe, accused of leading the commando responsible for the abduction.