Cameroon's renowned legal practitioner and human rights advocate Nkongho Felix Agbor has called for stronger protection of journalists and renewed commitment to press freedom amid growing global and national challenges.
Speaking in Buea, South West Region, the founder of the Centre of Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA) warned that press freedom remains under pressure in many societies, particularly where conflict, political tension, and misinformation are widespread.
He said journalism continues to be one of the most important pillars of democratic governance, ensuring that citizens remain informed and that those in power are held accountable.
Journalism as a democratic safeguard
According to him, journalists are not merely observers of society but active contributors to democracy. “They are the ones who document reality, question authority, and give voice to those who are often unheard,” he said.
He added that without a free and independent media, societies risk losing transparency, accountability, and the ability to address injustice effectively.
Difficult environment for media workers
Across Cameroon and other regions facing instability, journalists continue to operate in environments marked by risk and uncertainty. Concerns have been repeatedly raised about intimidation, censorship, harassment, and legal pressure targeting media professionals. Despite these challenges, the human rights advocate says many journalists continue to report from the field, including conflict-affected areas, often at significant personal risk. Barrister Agbor Balla acknowledged their resilience, describing their work as essential to public understanding and national cohesion.
Threat of misinformation
He also highlighted the growing challenge of misinformation and disinformation, particularly on digital platforms, warning that it undermines public trust and fuels division. He stressed the need for stronger professional standards in journalism, including fact-checking, editorial independence, and ethical reporting practices.
Call for stronger protections.
The Buea-based human rights advocate called on governments, institutions, and civil society to take concrete steps to protect journalists and strengthen media freedom. He urged an end to arbitrary arrests, censorship, and intimidation of media professionals, while also calling for improved access to information. “Press freedom is not optional. It is a democratic necessity,” he stated.
Role of the media in society
He further emphasized that the media plays a vital role in promoting peace, strengthening democracy, exposing corruption, educating citizens, and amplifying marginalized voices. According to him, these responsibilities are even more critical in fragile and divided societies where information can influence stability and public trust.
As World Press Freedom Day 2026 is marked globally on May 3, Agbor Balls pushes for urgency and responsibility to protect journalists, defend free expression, and strengthen independent media.
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