Thursday 7 October 2010

Charles Atangana case adjourned for three months


The case of NUJ member Charles Atangana, the journalist who is fighting deportation to Cameroon, was adjourned at the High Court in London for three months today.

The move was welcomed by the NUJ which says Atangana's life could be at risk if he is forced to return to Cameroon because of his previous work as a journalist investigating corruption in the country.

Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ deputy general secretary, said: “We are delighted the court did not decide to deport Charles Atangana today. We now have the opportunity to submit further evidence to support his asylum application to remain in the UK. Charles’ life could be at risk if he is forced to return to the Cameroon so we will keep up the pressure and continue to campaign for Charles to stay.”

Charles Atangana thanked his supporters: “At the High Court today I was relaxed after a nervous night yesterday. The gathering of colleagues, friends and union members outside the court gave me more strength. The court result today could have been influenced by the massive campaign that is on going. Now we have twelve weeks to accelerate the campaign. The legal support has been great and we send out thanks to all of my supporters. Until the next hearing I am still in limbo and I will keep fighting to stay.”

Pic: Guy Smallman

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