Lapiro de Mbanga, (a.k.a “Ndinga Man” or “Guitar Man”) is a popular singer-songwriter and political activist who has been imprisoned in Cameroon for more than a year. 

Mr. Mbanga was arrested in Mbanga City, Cameroon, on April 9, 2008. After being summoned by government officials to help calm crowds during a demonstration (something he has done in the past out of his commitment to non-violent protest), Mr. Mbanga was then accused of fomenting the mass demonstrations and strikes which took place throughout February 2008. He was formally charged with “complicity in looting, destruction of property, arson, obstructing streets, degrading public or classified property, and forming illegal gatherings.” These charges were immediately dismissed by observers, including participants in the demonstrations, as being politically motivated and are believed to have been made in retaliation for his frequent criticism of the government.

As an artist, Mr. Mbanga is known for using satirical lyrics to criticize corrupt politicians and address social and economic injustice in Cameroon. Many say that he provides a voice for the working class of his native land.  His earliest success came in 1986 with his album No Make Erreur. Since then, his quasi-rapping style and exotic use of French and “Pidgin” English-influenced street codes have captured the nation's imagination. Also a member of the Social Democratic Front, the main opposition party, Mr. Mbanga is an outspoken critic of the current Cameroonian leader, President Paul Biya. Throughout his career and activism, Mr. Mbanga has engaged in and encourages only non-violent dissent. You can find a tribute to him compiled from his music here --> Tribute

Fueled by his longstanding vocal opposition to the government, it is likely Mr. Mbanga's arrest was prompted by a song he had recently released entitled "Constipated Constitution." The song warned President Biya of the dangers of holding onto power absolutely (a charge stemming from a controversial constitutional amendment that was adopted by the Cameroonian National Assembly eliminating presidential term limits). 

On September 24, 2008, almost six months after his original arrest and detention, Mr. Mbanga was found guilty of three of the six charges against him and sentenced to three years in prison and a fine of FCFA 280 million (approx. $600,000). Mr. Mbanga is appealing to the Supreme Court after losing at the Appeal Court, where the conviction was upheld and the fine increased by $1,180. 

Mr. Mbanga is currently held at New Bell prison, also known as “hell on earth”, which is notable for unbearable conditions and is generally reserved for Cameroon's most hardened criminals. Built to accommodate 500-800 inmates, it is said to be home to more than 3,000 prisoners. Since being detained, Lapiro's health is deteriorating rapidly due to typhoid, chronic back pains, and respiratory infections; conditions that are aggravated by poor sanitary conditions in the prison. He is the father of four children.

A number of organizations are actively advocating for Lapiro's release, including the Danish-Based organization FreeMuse, International PEN, and Vigier Guitars based in France. Please sign Vigier's petition to free Lapiro: sign here.

Freedom Now works on behalf of Mr. Mbanga in challenging his detention and in seeing that he is rightfully released from prison.

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