Culled from Daily Update99
Paul Atanga Nji, Minister of Territorial Administration (MINAT), has ordered regional governors to put a definitive end to the use of groups commonly known as “strongmen” in operations of forced recovery, eviction, or displacement.
In a circular dated 22 April bearing the reference N°000983/L/MINAT/SG, the minister denounces recurring practices where these private militias substitute for legally authorized law enforcement. “These groups are known for serious acts of violence, disrupting public order,” reads the ministerial note.
The Minister firmly reminds that law n°97/021 of September 10, 1997, amended in 2014, formally prohibits the formation of private militias throughout the national territory.
Atanga Nji insists that the forced recovery of debts must strictly follow the legal procedure defined by law n°2023/011 of July 25, 2023. Only bailiffs and enforcers, with the approval of competent administrative authorities, can request the intervention of law enforcement.
“I demand the immediate cessation of these illegal practices in all your command units,” he orders, adding: “I am firmly committed to the rigorous application of these directives.” This circular comes in a context where citizens increasingly denounce the abuses committed by these militias, often accused of brutality and extortion. While the measure is positively received by human rights defenders, its effective implementation will be a real test for the concerned governors.
