Senate leader issues urgent call to combat gender-based violence

Senate President and Lamido of Rey Bouba, Aboubakary Abdoulaye, delivered a stern warning at the opening of the second ordinary session in Yaoundé, urging the government to take decisive action against sexual violence targeting children and femicide, which he described as increasingly alarming trends.

Addressing lawmakers, senior government officials including Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute, and the President of the National Assembly, Abdoulaye condemned attacks that violate the fundamental rights, dignity, and lives of victims. He emphasized that sexual abuse of women and children, alongside femicide, must be confronted with unwavering resolve.

Recent tragedy amplifies national outrage

The senator’s remarks come in the wake of widespread national outrage following the alleged rape of a three-year-old girl in Yaoundé. The incident sparked public protests and intensified calls for stronger child protection measures and harsher penalties for gender-based violence. The case has reignited debates on prevention strategies and the need for more effective law enforcement responses to protect vulnerable groups.

« These despicable acts demand a firm and coordinated response from all sectors of society », Abdoulaye stated, underscoring the urgency of implementing comprehensive policies to safeguard children and women across the country.