The National Communication Council (NCC) of Cameroon has taken the decision to suspend Canal+ Elles, a subsidiary channel of Canal+, due to allegations of promoting homosexual activities.
In a recent statement, NCC President Joseph Chebonkeng Kalabubsu announced the suspension of Canal+ Elles in Cameroon until further notice. The decision was made based on the repeated broadcasting of programs that depict obscene practices with homosexual tendencies.
The NCC had previously issued a warning to Canal+ on June 12, urging them to stop airing programs featuring homosexual scenes. However, it appears that the channel failed to comply with the directive.
According to the NCC, the broadcasting of homosexual content on Canal+ Elles goes against Cameroonian law and customs. The council emphasized that such programs promote practices that are contrary to the country’s values and laws.
To address these concerns and put an end to the broadcast of programs that violate Cameroonian laws, customs, and moral standards, the NCC has requested Canal+ to suspend Canal+ Elles channel in Cameroon immediately and until further notice.
It is important to note that Cameroon is among the 38 African countries that consider homosexuality as an abomination. The government has consistently expressed its disapproval of homosexuality and anything related to it.
Under Article 347:1 of the Cameroon Penal Code, individuals found guilty of engaging in homosexual activities can face up to five years of imprisonment and fines ranging from FCFA 20,000 to FCFA 200,000.
The government of Cameroon has been actively intensifying its efforts to combat homosexuality in recent times. In June of this year, the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, prohibited a conference-debate on homosexuality that was scheduled to take place in Yaounde. The conference, organized by the French Ambassador for the rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender individuals, Jean-Marc Berthon, was deemed to be in contradiction with Cameroonian legislation.
The NCC’s decision to suspend Canal+ Elles reflects the government’s commitment to upholding its laws and cultural values. The NCC aims to ensure that media outlets operating in Cameroon adhere to the country’s regulations and respect its customs.