Fearless Advocate: The Unyielding Fight for LGBT Rights in Cameroon

Veteran lawyer Alice Nkom, a beacon of hope for Cameroon's LGBT community, continues her fight against oppression despite facing accusations, threats, and legal challenges. With a commitment to human rights, she advocates for fundamental rights that transcend discriminatory laws, inspired by her decades-long dedication to justice.

Despite threats and ongoing legal challenges, Alice Nkom, an iconic lawyer in Cameroon, remains unwavering in her pursuit of justice for the LGBT community. As a founder of the human rights organization Redhac, her recent suspension by the government has only intensified the scrutiny on her work. The 80-year-old lawyer is resolute in her belief that her advocacy stems from her moral responsibility to protect those marginalized, particularly at a time when the country’s laws deem homosexuality a punishable offense.

Speaking from her office in Douala, Nkom expressed, "I will always defend homosexuals because they risk their freedom every day." Her dedication has positioned her as a guardian and a parental figure for many abandoned by their families due to their sexual orientation. With a penal code that imposes severe penalties for homosexual acts, she steadfastly argues that these laws infringe upon basic human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—an assertion she believes should hod more weight than discriminatory codes.

Nkom’s foray into LGBT legal advocacy came unexpectedly in 2003 when she witnessed young individuals shackled and persecuted for their sexual orientation, igniting a fierce determination to defend those subjected to such injustices. The establishment of the Association for the Defence of Homosexuality (Adefho) marked a significant turning point in her career, leading to notable cases including the defense of transgender individuals charged with "attempted homosexuality" during a routine outing.

As societal hostility grows, with incidents incited by hateful songs and public events, the situation for LGBT individuals in Cameroon becomes increasingly dire. Those like activist Sébastien report a rise in violence and the need for secrecy as they face rampant discrimination and danger within their own communities.

In what seemed a hopeful moment, the public acknowledgment by Brenda Biya—the daughter of the sitting president, coming out as a lesbian—stirred Nkom's hopes for change. She views the moment as a potential leverage point for advocating legal reform and challenges to the status quo, despite Brenda’s silence on collaboration.

Undeterred by threats of violence and legal suppression, Alice Nkom vows to continue her work, viewing the latest setbacks as mere obstacles rather than deterrents in her long fight for equality. Her unwavering commitment signifies a pivotal resistance against oppressive laws, paving the way for future generations.