Brenda Biya, daughter of Cameroon’s long-standing president, has stirred widespread debate and reaction after posting a photo on Instagram showing her kissing Brazilian model Layyons Valença.
The image, accompanied by the caption “I’m crazy about you & I want the world to know,” has ignited discussions in a country where same-sex relationships are outlawed.
Cameroon, under the presidency of 91-year-old Paul Biya since 1982, maintains strict laws against same-sex acts, punishable by up to five years in prison.
Brenda Biya, 26, who pursues a musical career under the alias King Nasty and primarily resides outside Cameroon, did not explicitly label her sexuality in the post but later shared an article from Le Monde that described her as having “come out.”
The reaction to Biya’s post has been polarized. Some, including transgender activist Shakiro, who sought asylum in Belgium after facing legal repercussions in Cameroon, lauded Biya for potentially becoming a catalyst for LGBTQ+ rights in the country. Shakiro described Biya’s action as a possible “turning point” in challenging deeply ingrained taboos.
However, social media responses within Cameroon have also reflected significant homophobia, with some questioning Biya’s intentions in making such a public statement.
Critics have debated whether her social status shields her from the legal and social repercussions that others in Cameroon might face under similar circumstances.
LGBT activists, while supportive of Biya’s openness, have pointed out the stark inequalities in how anti-LGBT laws are enforced in Cameroon.
Bandy Kiki, an advocate, highlighted the privilege that wealth and connections might afford in shielding individuals like Biya from severe consequences.
Human rights organizations have long criticized Cameroon’s anti-LGBT laws, urging the government to repeal them and uphold the rights of all citizens irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity. Barrister Alice Nkom, renowned for defending LGBT individuals in Cameroon, hailed Biya’s actions as courageous and a universal message of love.
Despite the controversy, mainstream media in Cameroon have largely avoided reporting on Biya’s Instagram post, potentially due to regulatory constraints on depictions of homosexuality. Neither the Cameroonian government nor President Biya have officially commented on the matter.
