A civil society organisation, Paradigm Initiative, has condemned continued internet disruptions in Cameroon, saying the development interferes with freedom of expression and access to information online ahead of the announcement of presidential election results.

In a statement on Friday, the organisation said the disruptions violate fundamental rights under Articles 9 and 19 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (African Charter) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Cameroon Constitution.

“On 15 April 2025, Paradigm Initiative (PIN) raised serious concerns about the deteriorating state of digital rights in Cameroon and called for urgent action to protect internet access, freedom of expression, and transparency in the lead-up to the 2025 presidential election. This call by PIN has been blatantly disregarded,” the statement stated.

The outage came after protests erupted across the country to block the declaration of 92-year-old Paul Biya as winner of the October 12 elections. The government, however, denied responsibility for the development, saying the disruption was caused by a submarine cable cut.

The organisation reminded the Cameroonian authorities of Principle 38 (2) of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa, which mandates States not to engage in or condone any disruption of access to the internet and other digital technologies for segments of the public or an entire population.

The organisation further noted that the disruptions portend serious implications for the integrity of the electoral process, citing restrictions of access to information and freedom of expression.

It stated, “When internet access is restricted, freedom of expression and access to information are constrained, and the voices of citizens, journalists, and the electorate are diminished. The telecom operators and regulators in Cameroon have contractual obligations to maintain reliable internet access and are responsible for notifying their clients of the causes of internet disruptions.”

The organisation urged Cameroonian authorities to immediately cease the disruptions and restore full access to the internet and social media platforms.

It also charged internet service providers in the country to immediately disclose information concerning any government orders for internet shutdowns and to restore internet services.