Mr. Jub Mbaku, a respected audiovisual journalist, has formally addressed the President of the National Communication Council regarding the recent suspension of election debate programs on audiovisual media during the campaign period in Cameroon. In his letter, Mbaku requests urgent clarification on several key aspects of the directive. He questions the context, what specific circumstances led to this decision, and seeks to understand the scope of its application across media platforms.
He also challenges the legal basis for the suspension, asking whether it aligns with Cameroon’s constitutional and regulatory frameworks. Furthermore, Mbaku probes the degree of enforcement, the underlying intention behind the directive, and its potential consequences for democratic engagement and media freedom. His intervention reflects growing concern among media professionals and civil society about the transparency and fairness of electoral discourse in the country. Read details below:
Tuesday September 23th, 2025, Mr. Joseph Chebonkeng, President, National Communication Council (NCC), Yaoundé, Cameroon
About Suspension of Election Debate Programs on Audiovisual Media in Cameroon during Campaign
Mr President,
With due professional respect, I address this letter to your high office concerning information recently reported by DASH TV News, (6:30PM News of this day) indicating that the National Communication Council has instructed media houses to suspend election debate programs on radio and television during the official two-week presidential campaign period. I vividly remember a similar situation few days ago when you visited the Northern Region.
As a journalist committed to professionalism and respect for state institutions, I seek clarification on this matter, as the implications are seemingly complex for media practitioners, the electorate, and the democratic process as a whole.
Specifically, I wish to understand:
1. The Context– What circumstances informed this directive?
2. Scope of Application of the suspension– Does it affect only audiovisual media, or does it extend to print and digital platforms as well? What’s assessment tools are in place to determine this?
3. Legal Basis– What provisions of Cameroonian law, media law or Electoral Code empower the NCC to enforce such a suspension?
4. Degree of Enforcement– Is this a recommendation, an advisory guideline, or a binding regulatory sanction?
5. Intension– What gains for Cameroon’s democratic process are envisaged in suspending Media debate programs at a time citizens need clarity and engagement in such a crucial time in their history- The Presidential Election?
6. With what Consequences? – Mr Joe, how does the NCC intend to reconcile this suspension with the constitutional duty of the press to inform, educate, and sensitize the electorate without fear or favor?
Mr. President, the media is an indispensable partner in nation building, particularly during elections.
I like you to know that where i practice, in the South south West region, the efforts to engage election is first a daunting one. The Press is already under attack in its frantic efforts to inform and educate the citizens here on their rights to soufrage.
Debate programs are not only platforms for political exchanges but also essential tools for helping citizens make informed choices. If such programs are to be suspended, the rationale, legal instruments, and safeguard measures must be clearly communicated to prevent confusion, mistrust, or the perception of censorship.
I therefore respectfully urge your high office to provide a public clarification. Such transparency will guide journalists especially those who haven’t had the opportunity to attend those seminar organized by NCC in major cities, in upholding professionalism and to reinforce the credibility of the NCC as a guarantor of both ethical standards and press freedom in Cameroon.
I hope to read from you soonest. Thank you for the efforts you have been putting in so far at NCC.
In dire anticipation
Jude MBAKU, Audiovisual Journalist, Buea, South West. Duly Approved!
