Lapiro de Mbanga har været fængslet siden september 2008, hvor han satte musik til folkets frustrationer over det smuldrende demokrati i Cameroun. Derfor modtog han onsdag prisen ‘Freedom to Create’ Imprisoned Artist Prize i sin fængselscelle i Cameroun.
Nominated by Freemuse, Lapiro de Mbanga – described as an “unceremonial sheriff of the backyards” – was selected “in recognition of his courage and outstanding artwork” by a distinguished panel including world famous conductor Daniel Barenboim and Geoffrey Robertson, one of the world’s foremost human rights lawyers.
The news was conveyed to Lapiro in his prison cell in Cameroon a few hours before the prize ceremony took place Wednesday evening at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum in attendance of international luminaries such as the celebrated Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf, Time Out founder Tony Elliot and Human rights activist Bianca Jagger.
Freemuse Programme Manager Ole Reitov who is coordinating the Freemuse campaign for the release of Lapiro, called the imprisoned artist and revealed the news:
“Lapiro is absolutely overwhelmed about the prize. We’ve spoken about the nomination several times, but winning is something very different,” told Ole Reitov. “Lapiro said that, apart from the very strong support to his case and his family, the prize belongs to all artists fighting for freedom of expression.”
Erosion of democracy
Lapiro de Mbanga believes that music can be used as a strong tool against corruption and power abuse. He has become a symbol of peaceful resistance to the erosion of democracy in Cameroon. Opposing constitutional amendment in 2008, which not only provided the president with immunity from prosecution for acts as president, but even allow President Biya to run for unlimited re-elections, Lapiro de Mbanga wrote the song ‘Constitution Constipée’ (Constipated Constitution), which inspired demonstrations all over the country.
In September 2008, Lapiro was sentenced to three years imprisonment. Sharing a cell with more than 50 persons, Lapiro’s health has deteriorated as hygiene conditions and food are substandard.
“But this will neither stop me nor my music,” said Lapiro, who has a long history of voicing the frustrations of the people in Cameroon
Læs mere om prisvinderen her: http://www.freemuse.org/sw32032.asp
