Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daniel D
Published on 2024-04-13 12:46:26
Cameroonian musician based in the US, Libianca, has postponed her North American music tour due to death threats she received from individuals sympathetic to the Ambazonian movement for independence in Cameroon.
She made an announcement on Instagram, explaining that she was rescheduling the event as a precautionary measure to ensure her safety. Libianca stated, “Hi guys, I will be postponing my tour due to the death threats I have been receiving. I refuse to cancel. I just need time to take the necessary precautions.”
In a detailed two-page letter addressed to the Cameroon government and the Separatist Movement, the talented singer described the origins of the crisis that led to the rescheduling of her tour.
During her previous tour in Australia, she began receiving death threats from a Cameroonian separatist group known as “The Amba Boys” because she and her team displayed a Cameroonian flag on stage. The separatists interpreted this act as her taking a stance on the ongoing crisis in English-speaking Cameroon that began in 2016. What initially started as a peaceful protest by English-speaking teachers and lawyers escalated into an armed conflict, with separatists fighting to establish the breakaway nation of Ambazonia in 2017.
Libianca emphasized that she would not be coerced into supporting any particular cause through intimidation. She expressed her dedication to showcasing the beauty and talent of Cameroon and its people and vowed not to let anyone hinder her in doing so.
Regarding her display of the flag, she clarified that it symbolized her belief that unity and love would prevail among the people of Cameroon. She emphasized that her actions were not a declaration of allegiance to any side but a representation of the united culture and vibrancy of the people of Cameroon.
Born to parents from the Northwest Region of Cameroon, Libianca grew up and studied in Bamenda before returning to the USA. Her rise to fame came last year with the release of her single “People,” which gained international recognition and catapulted her to stardom at the age of 23.
Despite her success, Libianca has faced challenges celebrating her achievements with her Cameroonian family due to the pressure to align with one side of the conflict. She has chosen to remain neutral, advocating for unity among her people.
After announcing the postponement of her tour, Libianca’s fans have shown their support and encouraged her to stay resolute. The artist from Minnesota, USA, has been targeted by Anglophone Cameroonians abroad who promote separatist ideologies, attacking individuals from the Northwest and Southwest regions who do not advocate for Ambazonia.
In conclusion, Libianca’s decision to prioritize her safety and remain committed to promoting unity and peace in Cameroon despite facing threats showcases her resilience and dedication to her country and its people.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
