Brenda Biya, the daughter of Cameroonian President Paul Biya, publicly disclosed her sexual orientation as a lesbian, aiming to challenge the country's prohibitive laws on same-sex partnerships. The 27-year-old's announcement came through an Instagram post last week, where she shared a photograph of herself kissing Brazilian model Layyons Velanca. Her caption read, "I'm crazy about you and I want the world to know." The revelation sparked mixed reactions online.
According to reports, Brenda expressed that her decision to come out was motivated by a desire to inspire others in similar situations. She emphasized the importance of her message, despite not discussing the post with her family beforehand. Brenda criticized Cameroon’s anti-gay law as unfair, noting that the legislation existed before her father's rise to power. She hoped her story would contribute to changing the status quo.
President Paul Biya, aged 91, has been one of Africa's longest-serving leaders, holding office since 1982. Brenda revealed that she had been in a relationship with Velanca for eight months and had visited Cameroon three times with her partner without informing her family of their relationship. Living abroad, Brenda reported receiving a significant amount of support as well as criticism following her Instagram post.
In an interview with Le Parisien, Brenda recounted her family's reaction. The first call came from her brother, who was upset about the unannounced post. Subsequently, her parents, President Paul Biya and First Lady Chantal Biya, asked her to delete the post. "Since then, it's been silence," Brenda remarked. She shared that she first had a crush on a girl at age 16 but found it challenging to express herself due to the country's social climate.
Cameroon's laws criminalize same-sex relationships, with penalties of up to five years in prison for violations. Neither President Biya nor the First Lady has publicly commented on Brenda's disclosure. Officials also refrained from making statements, referring to the matter as a family issue.
The announcement has led to legal repercussions. The DDHP Movement, a group supporting the current laws, filed a complaint against Brenda with the public prosecutor. Philippe Nsoue, a representative of the group, asserted that justice must be served and emphasized that no one, including the President's daughter, is above the law.
Brenda expressed satisfaction with her decision to come out, stating that she hoped to provide hope and support to those struggling with their identity. She emphasized the importance of sending love to those suffering due to their sexual orientation, aiming to help them feel less isolated.