Journalist Detained Blowing Whistle On Water Shortage, Poor Sanitation
His crime was anchoring a radio programme on environmental issues that affect the residents of Menji such as scarcity of water, poor garbage disposal, impassable roads, and the awkward construction of market sheds at the Menji main market.
Before he knew it, Bisong Oliver, anchor of “Lebialem Top Show” of the Lebialem Community Radio (LCR) FM 91.7 in Menji, stewed behind bars on November 12 and 13, 2015. For 48 hours, Bisong said he underwent rough treatment and intimidation.
His mobile phone was seized so he was incommunicado.
Although Lebialem Top Show had three journalists on the panel only Bisong attracted the authorities who detained him. Immediately after the programme, administrative authorities in Menji ordered for his arrest with no reason advanced.
Bisong was released upon the payment of 7000 francs CFA with no court appearance. The administrative authorities only told the journalist that handling topical issues like roads, water, sanitation and environmental issues may cause the population to riot and revolt, thus causing public disorder.
Bisong said just two days after his radio programme, hygiene and sanitation in Menji improved considerably; garbage cans were cleared, waste collection point along the road to GTHS Fontem was also cleared, water supply increased, and the authorities issued instructions for the immediate rehabilitation of roads in the three sub-divisions of Lebialem.
According to Bisong, transport fare from Menji to Dschang that was at 10,000 francs CFA for a distance of 45 km in the rainy season has dropped to 2,500 francs CFA after the rehabilitation works; cooking gas that was selling for 10,000 francs CFA a few months ago has dropped 7,500 francs CFA.
Menji smells better after the rotting garbage heaps have been cleared and the nursery school children saved from picking up dirty containers to be used as water bottles.
Bisong’s whistle blowing and subsequent detention are probably blessings that have brought some relief to the population of Menji and a possible reduction in water-borne diseases.
BY a correspondent in Menji
