HEAD OF STATE’S NEW YEAR MESSAGE TO THE NATION
Yaounde, 31 December 2019
Fellow Cameroonians,
My dear compatriots,
Last year, under the same circumstances, I reviewed, before you, the situation in three key areas of the life of our country.
Together, we noted that the security situation in our North-West and South-West Regions was still a cause for concern despite calls for insurgents to lay down their arms. Accordingly, finding a solution had to be given priority. We also observed that our economic growth was improving, but needed to be strengthened to stay on the path of emergence.
Lastly, it was demonstrated that social progress in Cameroon is not mere rhetoric. This major complement to our democratic system is making great strides in its various components, namely education, health, employment, etc., although obviously, there is still room for improvement.
How have we fared one year on?
1. Concerning SOCIAL PROGRESS, our objective remains to improve the living conditions of our fellow citizens and, ultimately, eradicate poverty. This is a huge task requiring significant financial resources. The budgetary allocations devoted to it are substantial, and, of course, depend on the level of government revenue that is also contingent upon the soundness of our economy, which I will be addressing in a moment.
In any case, note that the efforts made over the last few years in this domain will be continued and, if possible, stepped up.
2. Regarding OUR ECONOMIC GROWTH, I think I can safely say that it is fairly satisfactory, albeit constrained by an uncertain global context, among other things.Much effort has been made recently to improve this situation under the Economic and Financial Programme concluded with the IMF. Our growth has picked up again, inflation is under control, budget and external deficits are contained and our public debt remains sustainable. The Government’s 2020 Economic, Financial, Social and Cultural
Programme, which was presented recently before the National Assembly, is consistent with this trend. It is based on a 4% growth assumption, which is expected to keep us on the path to emergence by 2035. Moreover, our draft National Development Strategy for the 2020-2030 period seeks to achieve the same objective. I wish to avail myself of this opportunity to thank our foreign partners, including the IMF which I have already mentioned, the World Bank, the African Development Bank and the French Development Agency, for their budget support and assistance to our structural reforms.
Does this mean that we may now rest on our laurels? Of course not. Our goal remains to become an emerging economy by 2035. However, what with the unstable global context and the tensions that are jeopardizing trade, we may need to redouble our efforts to maintain our country on the path of sustainable economic recovery. I believe we can do it. We must consider such recovery an overriding obligation that will mobilize all our energies. Accordingly, it requires not only improving the living conditions of Cameroonians, but also ensuring the peaceful exercise of democratic rights.
3. Lastly, the SECURITY SITUATION IN THE NORTH-WEST AND SOUTH-WEST REGIONS
Without a doubt, this is one of the most urgent problems at the moment. The criminal activities of armed groups continue to disrupt public, economic, and social life in these regions, yet various measures have been taken in recent months to reason with these youths, most of who have been brainwashed. They have been called upon to lay down their weapons, and social reintegration prospects have been offered them. For those who persist in going down the wrong road and continue to use violence, we will have no other choice than to combat them in order to protect all our fellow citizens. Our Defence and Security Forces will, once again, perform their duty with restraint, but without weakness. I wish to reassure them of my full support and high esteem.
Earlier on, decisions had been taken to convince our compatriots in the two regions concerned of Government’s willingness to devolve to local authorities the powers that would enable them to play a greater role in managing local affairs. It had also been confirmed that provisions were to be made to fast-track the promotion of bilingualism and multiculturalism.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that the Nation at large showed support for Government’s policy by expressing, in various ways, solidarity with the populations who suffered the abuses and atrocities of armed gangs.
However, aware of the long period of time required to implement planned reforms, and in a bid to put an end to the hassles and suffering of our compatriots in the North-West and South-West Regions, I decided to open, as from end-September – permit me to quote myself – “a Major National Dialogue that will, in line with our Constitution, enable us to seek ways and means of meeting the profound aspirations of the people of the North-West and South-West Regions, but also of all the other components of our Nation”.
I dwelled on this in a message to all our compatriots on 10 September 2019. I had the feeling that the initiative was largely approved by the national public and various international organizations, including the United Nations and many friendly countries.
The “Major Dialogue”, which was preceded, as I indicated, by various peace offers to the insurgents, accompanied by the release of hundreds of detainees, was effectively held from 30 September to 4 October 2019. It brought together a wide array of representatives of Cameroon’s civil society.
Today, I wish to thank all those who kindly participated in the dialogue, and congratulate its organizers, in particular the Prime Minister, Head of Government. It seemed to me that for participants, this marked a great opportunity for communion whereby they expressed their attachment to peace and national unity.
I noted with satisfaction that all Cameroonians welcomed many of the proposals made during the Major National Dialogue.
Accordingly, on 10 December 2019, a bill on the promotion of bilingualism and multiculturalism was passed by the National Assembly and the Senate. It
provides for equal use of English and French in all our public institutions. I am convinced that the effective implementation of this law will strengthen our country’s bilingual nature.
Furthermore, on 15 December 2019, a bill to institute the General Code of Regional and Local Authorities was tabled before our two Houses of Parliament, namely the National Assembly and the Senate, for consideration in an extraordinary session. Thus our Members of the National Assembly and our
Senators passed a law with decisive breakthroughs in our decentralization process, notably regarding the status of local elected officials, the functioning of local assemblies and the allocation of additional, substantial financial resources to regions.
Concerning the North-West and South-West Regions in particular, the special status granted them takes into account the specificities of the Anglophone education sub system, Common Law and traditional authorities.
My dear compatriots,
As you can see, a new Cameroon is taking shape; a Cameroon that is adapted to present times and looks to the future.
To get to where we are, we encountered many hurdles, and as in the past, together, we overcome all of them.
In this seven-year term of Great Opportunities for Cameroon, the Major National Dialogue has paved the way for our country to resolutely embark on the path to peace, national unity and progress, which are values that have always made our country great.
Fellow Cameroonians,
My dear compatriots,
Before concluding, I would like to say a few words about our democratic system.
When the conditions were right and, together, we laid the foundations of
democracy in our country, I was aware that the road would be strewn with obstacles. This actually happened, but we have been able to make remarkable progress.
Unfortunately, a minority, in Cameroon and abroad, seem to have forgotten the rules that govern life in a democracy. Needless to recall that the sole arbiter in a democracy is the sovereign people. When the sovereign people make a choice through free and fair elections and the results are proclaimed after review of petitions, such results must be recognized and accepted by all.
Neither the social media nor news outlets can change the outcome of an election, talk less of illegal protests, violence and personal or hate-filled attacks.
Remember, I once said “Let’s talk, let’s not fight”. Such is the behaviour of the citizens of a democratic country. Participation in the democratic life of one’s country requires compliance with its rules and joining political parties which carry out their activities within the
confines of the law. This will be tested during the upcoming 9 February 2020 municipal and legislative elections.
Security measures have been taken to ensure that all our fellow citizens
countrywide exercise their voting rights. Where necessary, such measures will be ramped up. Therefore, I urge all Cameroonians who are registered on the electoral roll to go and vote, bearing in mind that they will be electing the men and women who will translate into reality the reforms desired by the Cameroonian people, notably fast-tracking the implementation of decentralization.
Regarding the excesses of some of our compatriots of the Diaspora, whether or not they still have Cameroonian nationality, I believe they should, out of patriotism, refrain from using negative language against their country of origin. One must respect one’s fatherland, its institutions and those who embody them.
My dear compatriots,
Together, let us make Cameroon a land of great opportunities for economic and social development in peace and unity.
Happy and Prosperous New Year 2020 to everyone!
Long Live the Republic!
Long Live Cameroon!
Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Prof. Dorothy Njeuma Expantiates on Bill to Institute a General Code on Regional and Local Authorities
Bill to Institute a General Code on Regional and Local Authorities Remarks by Prof. Dorothy L. Njeuma
December 16, 2019
Despite its length (501 sections, 142 pages), the bill is much better structured and much better drafted than the bill on official languages that raised a lot of dust. A table of contents should be provided at the beginning of the bill, to facilitate its perusal.
2. Some people feel that on the whole, the Bill still leaves us in a considerable state of dependence on the Central Government and, largely, makes a joke of the notion of “autonomy.” They are convinced that people in the central government are relentless in their pursuit of dominance and control of the resources of our SW Region, particularly. They point out that many details have been left out of the bill for further legislation and that such liberties should not be given to the Executive branch of Government.
3. My view is that the bill is quite comprehensive, addresses many of the recommendations of the National Dialogue and is a positive step forward. It brings out some details of what many people in the NW and SW regions want to see in the Special Status, especially in section 3 and sections 327 – 370, even if a lot still remains to be done to satisfy the prescriptions of the anxiously awaited Special Status.
4. However, the use of “may” instead of “shall be” in section 328 denies the people of the NW and SW regions the right to participate in decision making on issues of fundamental importance to their existence.
5. Section 328 should be read in conjunction with section 167 and 277 which provides in their paragraphs 2 and 1respectively that the Council Board and the Regional Council shall settle regional matters by deliberation and paragraphs 6 and 5 respectively which provides that the Council Board or Regional Council “shall mandatorily be consulted for the implementation, in the territory of the council area or region, of any development or equipment project by the State, councils or any public, semi-public or private body.”
6. The introduction of an Ombudsman, otherwise referred to as a Public Independent Conciliator in sections 367 – 371, is a welcome innovation and should be applauded. However, his appointment should not depend on proposals by the Representative of the State and the President of the Regional Council (section 368), since most complaints by citizens are likely to be against these two officials.
7. The meaning of section 368 (4) as formulated in English and in French is not clear. In the English version, it reads: He shall not be bound by professional secrecy. The French version reads: Le secret professionnel ne lui est pas opposable. I wonder what is meant by that provision as formulated in English or in French and whether the two versions mean the same thing.
8. A rational and equitable revenue allocation formula to the regions should be spelt out in the bill. Regions should receive royalties for exploitation of natural resources of their areas.
9. The management of land is fundamental. Measures should be provided to fight against land grabbing by Administrators and Mayors.
10. Some people think that the implication of the Representative of the State in the affairs of the region is unwelcome. My personal view is that there must be some control over unscrupulous mayors, most of whom are only interested in enriching themselves at the expense of the people.
11. There are a few inaccurate translations into English that need to be corrected – section 8 (first sentence), title on p. 17, etc.
12. For the title of the bill in English, should we just say “Local Government” or “Local Councils” instead of “Regional and Local Authorities?” If “Collectivités Territorial Décentralisées” has a clear meaning in French and refers to a structure, “Regional and Local Authorities” in English may refer to persons/officials.
13. It should be noted that council schools of Basic Education are under the control and management of Council Boards (section 161) while government secondary schools, high schools and colleges of Secondary Education in the region are under the control and management of Regional Councils (sections 271 and 278). Similarly, Council Boards shall control and manage Health Centres (section 160) while Regional Councils shall control and manage health facilities (section 270); may be that section should read district and regional hospitals instead of health facilities.
14. It is provided in the bill that Council Boards shall recruit and manage teaching and support staff of Council schools of Basic Education (section 161) while Regional Councils shall recruit and manage teaching and support staff of government secondary schools, high schools and colleges of the region (section 271). Similarly, Council Boards shall recruit and manage nursing staff and paramedics of integrated health centres and sub-divisional health centres (section 160) while Regional Councils shall recruit and manage nursing and paramedical staff of district and regional hospitals (section 270).
15. It should be made clear which schools and staff shall remain under the purview of the Ministries of Basic Education and Secondary Education respectively. Is there a distinction between Council Schools and Government Schools at basic education level? If it is ALL SCHOOLS and ALL STAFF that are to be transferred, that will be a HUGE responsibility for the Local Councils and Regional Councils. Clear rules and regulations of Public Service for the categories of staff concerned will have to be spelt out to avoid more frustrations than those experienced by teachers, nurses and doctors at present.
16. It should also be noted that the bill does not envisage the control, recruitment and management of staff of youth, sports and physical education as well as social affairs and other specialties such as agriculture and community development in council areas and regions by local and regional councils.
Buea, 15th December 2019
Prof. Dorothy L. Njeuma
December 16, 2019
Despite its length (501 sections, 142 pages), the bill is much better structured and much better drafted than the bill on official languages that raised a lot of dust. A table of contents should be provided at the beginning of the bill, to facilitate its perusal.
2. Some people feel that on the whole, the Bill still leaves us in a considerable state of dependence on the Central Government and, largely, makes a joke of the notion of “autonomy.” They are convinced that people in the central government are relentless in their pursuit of dominance and control of the resources of our SW Region, particularly. They point out that many details have been left out of the bill for further legislation and that such liberties should not be given to the Executive branch of Government.
3. My view is that the bill is quite comprehensive, addresses many of the recommendations of the National Dialogue and is a positive step forward. It brings out some details of what many people in the NW and SW regions want to see in the Special Status, especially in section 3 and sections 327 – 370, even if a lot still remains to be done to satisfy the prescriptions of the anxiously awaited Special Status.
4. However, the use of “may” instead of “shall be” in section 328 denies the people of the NW and SW regions the right to participate in decision making on issues of fundamental importance to their existence.
5. Section 328 should be read in conjunction with section 167 and 277 which provides in their paragraphs 2 and 1respectively that the Council Board and the Regional Council shall settle regional matters by deliberation and paragraphs 6 and 5 respectively which provides that the Council Board or Regional Council “shall mandatorily be consulted for the implementation, in the territory of the council area or region, of any development or equipment project by the State, councils or any public, semi-public or private body.”
6. The introduction of an Ombudsman, otherwise referred to as a Public Independent Conciliator in sections 367 – 371, is a welcome innovation and should be applauded. However, his appointment should not depend on proposals by the Representative of the State and the President of the Regional Council (section 368), since most complaints by citizens are likely to be against these two officials.
7. The meaning of section 368 (4) as formulated in English and in French is not clear. In the English version, it reads: He shall not be bound by professional secrecy. The French version reads: Le secret professionnel ne lui est pas opposable. I wonder what is meant by that provision as formulated in English or in French and whether the two versions mean the same thing.
8. A rational and equitable revenue allocation formula to the regions should be spelt out in the bill. Regions should receive royalties for exploitation of natural resources of their areas.
9. The management of land is fundamental. Measures should be provided to fight against land grabbing by Administrators and Mayors.
10. Some people think that the implication of the Representative of the State in the affairs of the region is unwelcome. My personal view is that there must be some control over unscrupulous mayors, most of whom are only interested in enriching themselves at the expense of the people.
11. There are a few inaccurate translations into English that need to be corrected – section 8 (first sentence), title on p. 17, etc.
12. For the title of the bill in English, should we just say “Local Government” or “Local Councils” instead of “Regional and Local Authorities?” If “Collectivités Territorial Décentralisées” has a clear meaning in French and refers to a structure, “Regional and Local Authorities” in English may refer to persons/officials.
13. It should be noted that council schools of Basic Education are under the control and management of Council Boards (section 161) while government secondary schools, high schools and colleges of Secondary Education in the region are under the control and management of Regional Councils (sections 271 and 278). Similarly, Council Boards shall control and manage Health Centres (section 160) while Regional Councils shall control and manage health facilities (section 270); may be that section should read district and regional hospitals instead of health facilities.
14. It is provided in the bill that Council Boards shall recruit and manage teaching and support staff of Council schools of Basic Education (section 161) while Regional Councils shall recruit and manage teaching and support staff of government secondary schools, high schools and colleges of the region (section 271). Similarly, Council Boards shall recruit and manage nursing staff and paramedics of integrated health centres and sub-divisional health centres (section 160) while Regional Councils shall recruit and manage nursing and paramedical staff of district and regional hospitals (section 270).
15. It should be made clear which schools and staff shall remain under the purview of the Ministries of Basic Education and Secondary Education respectively. Is there a distinction between Council Schools and Government Schools at basic education level? If it is ALL SCHOOLS and ALL STAFF that are to be transferred, that will be a HUGE responsibility for the Local Councils and Regional Councils. Clear rules and regulations of Public Service for the categories of staff concerned will have to be spelt out to avoid more frustrations than those experienced by teachers, nurses and doctors at present.
16. It should also be noted that the bill does not envisage the control, recruitment and management of staff of youth, sports and physical education as well as social affairs and other specialties such as agriculture and community development in council areas and regions by local and regional councils.
Buea, 15th December 2019
Prof. Dorothy L. Njeuma
Thursday, November 28, 2019
Common Wealth, the AU, and La Francophonie Officials has Concluded it's Tripatite mission to Cameroon on the Worsening Anglophone crisis
COMMONWEALTH STATEMENT OF THE JOINT MISSION OF THE AFRICAN UNION (AU), THE COMMONWEALTH AND THE ORGANISATION INTERNATIONALE DE LA FRANCOPHONIE (OIF) TO CAMEROON
The Chairperson of the AU Commission, HE Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC and the Secretary-General of OIF, HE Louise Mushikiwabo are visiting Cameroon from 26 to 28 November 2019.
While in Cameroon they will meet with the country’s leadership and other stakeholders to encourage momentum in efforts to address the conflict in the northwest and southwest regions of the country.
A Commonwealth spokesperson said: “Cameroon is a valuable member of the African Union, the Commonwealth and La Francophonie whose rich diversity is to be celebrated. Every Cameroonian deserves peace and a return to normality.”
The spokesperson added: “The Commonwealth welcomes the outcomes of the recent Major National Dialogue held in Cameroon, as well as other existing home-grown initiatives aimed at addressing the conflict.
"We look forward to engaging with President Paul Biya and other stakeholders on the progress that is being made in addressing the root causes of the conflict, and how we can lend our collective support in promoting lasting peace in the country.”
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
Donga-Mantung MP Awudu Mbaya Backs out of Feb. 2020 Parliamentary Race in Cameroon, by Passing Fru Ndi's Clarion Call
PRESENTED BY HONOURABLE DR. AWUDU MBAYA CYPRIAN (MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT & QUESTOR AT THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY)
TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND
PARTICULARLY TO THE WIMBUM PEOPLE WHO MAKE UP THE DONGA-MANTUNG CENTRE CONSTITUENCY (NDU AND NKAMBE
SUB-DIVISIONS) ABOUT MY POSITION ON THE UP-COMING LEGISLATIVE ELECTIONS SLATED FOR 09 FEBRUARY 2020 AS CONVENED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF CAMEROON H. E. PAUL BIYA.
My dear WIMBUM people,
Dear S.D.F. Party members and sympathizers,
Traditional Rulers of Mbumland,
People of Donga-Mantung,
Religious Leaders,
My dear FAMILY members,
Fellow Cameroonians at home and abroad,
Distinguished members of the Press, Ladies and gentlemen.
It is a privilege and a singular honour for me to come before you to make a public statement about my position on the up-coming Legislative Election that has been called to take place on the 09th of February 2020. Ever since the Electoral College was convened, many of you; my constituents and many other Cameroonians of goodwill at home and abroad have called me and sought to know my position as to whether I, Hon. Dr. AWUDU MBAYA CYPRIAN, shall seek reelection as M.P. for Donga-Mantung Centre or not. I should have normally been making this public declaration from the Nkambe grandstand from where I have always been addressing you. Unfortunately, the current civil war in the region does not permit me to be there physically with you. Reason why I am reaching you through the media.
I have since been observing the situation on the ground in the North West region; particularly Donga-Mantung division in general and my constituency, in particular. I have had deep reflections with my conscience and my family and friends, as well as with many of you, my noble constituents. I have also prayed for God Almighty to guide me in taking my decision, which I believe the time has come for me to share with you who have bestowed confidence on me by electing me four (04) times consecutively in 1997, 2002, 2007 and 2013; to represent you in the National Assembly of Cameroon.
In 1990, as a young businessman or entrepreneur based in Douala, Cameroon; I had a terrible experience in Seoul, South Korea where I had gone to finalize orders for textiles. Upon arrival at the International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, I was almost kidnapped by an Aiport taximan who had picked me up and diverted my itinery attempting to seize my briefcase that contained all my money and Travellers’ Cheques that I had carried along to pay balances to my suppliers. I resisted and fought back, protecting my briefcase and alerting the Police that finally took me to my business partners with whom I finalized business before leaving South Korea and flying to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
While in Nigeria, my local business associate and I cleared my five (05) containers from the seaport in Port Harcourt and sold the goods in just a few days. Upon receipt of the revenue from our sales, my Nigerian business partner duped me and refused to give me my share of the money. We engaged in a serious dispute and a certain Cameroonian who came to the scene pleaded with me to calm down and rather go back home alive. By that time, I had missed my return flight to Douala and the gentleman offered to accompany me to Cameroon by sea using a “flying boat” from Calabar in Nigeria to Ekok in the South West region of Cameroon. Finally, I lost all my investment in the 05 containers but arrived Cameroon safely after turbulent ride marked by hostile sea waves and tides that almost capsized our boat in the Sea. I left Ekok through Mamfe by road and arrived my residence in Douala on the 29 May 1990, unaware of the latest political developments that had taken place in Cameroon after H.E. Ni John FRU NDI and the Founding Fathers had just launched the SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT (S.D.F.) on the 26 May 1990 in Bamenda during which six people were killed at the City Chemist Round-about, known as today Liberty Square.
On the 30th of May 1990, I, was summoned and picked up alongside other prominent or influential Anglophones living in the city of Douala on the instructions of Littoral Governor LUC LOE. We were immediately placed under some sort of house arrest in the conference room of the Governor’s office in Bonanjo, Douala. We were compelled to denounce FRU NDI and dissociate ourselves from what he and the Founding Fathers had just done by launching the SDF party. We were held against our wish; stayed incommunicado there all day and later released to go home that night after resisting to comply to the
Governor’s request. Thereafter, I immediately bought the ideals of the
SDF that revolved around: DEMOCRACY – SOCIAL JUSTICE
AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES; as well as its catchy slogan of:
POWER TO THE PEOPLE. From that time, I became a sympathizer and supporter and then a registered member of the S.D.F. opposition political party.
I worked tirelessly to plant the SDF all over Douala and across the Littoral province using my personal financial and material resources to set-up SDF party structures (Districts and Wards) in the Wouri, Moungo, Sanaga-Maritime and Nkam sub-divisions. Some key towns include but are not limited to Nkongsamba, Melong, Loum, Penja, Mbanga, Manjo, Edea, Yabassi, Nkondjock and even on the island of Manoka. I went beyond the Littoral province and implanted the SDF party in towns and villages of the Nde and Upper Nkam divisions of the West region and many parts of the Centre region.
Working initially under the leadership of Mr. FEKO and together with other party comrades like Mme. WANDJI, Dr. NJAKWA, Mahlem MOUSSA, Me. MBAMI, Mr. KUMASSE, Mr. NGONG, Mr. NDUMBONG, and a host of others; I became so active and instrumental that during the SDF Provincial elections of 1991 I was elected Vice Provincial Chairman, while Dr. NJAKWA was elected Provincial Chairman for the SDF Littoral Province. My fellow SDF comrades and I were tear-gazed, beaten-up and sprayed with water cannons as we peacefully marched through the streets of Douala calling for democratic change in Cameroon through free and fair elections; following the disputed 1992 Presidential elections which our Presidential candidate – Chairman FRU NDI won in a landslide victory in the Littoral province.
In 1996, thanks to our collective efforts and organization at the grassroots, my Littoral Province won all four (04) Councils in the Wouri division as well as in other parts of the Littoral. Dr Njakwa became MAYOR of Douala 1st District- a thing that was before that time considered to be a taboo. In a bid to frustrate the efforts of the SDF in managing the councils that she had won; the post of Government Delegate to the Douala City Council was re-enforced to keep government’s control of our legitimately won councils.
In 1997, when the SDF decided to participate in the Legislative elections, I had the easier and clearer option to run for political office in Douala, where I had become very popular and which was also one of the bastions of the SDF at that time. A delegation led by the Fon of Chup and Mayor Mangoh Jones Tangko (who had just been elected on the SDF ticket in 1996 to run the Nkambe Council); visited me in my Douala residence with a special message from my traditional rulers telling me that the Fons of Mbumland had requested that I come back home and represent the WIMBUM PEOPLE in
Parliament. Due to the love I had and still have for my people and knowing the under-developed nature of Donga-Mantung division at that time; I accepted their offer instead and contested in the pioneer innovative SDF Primaries which I won against all odds including a smear campaign by some Wimbum people within and outside the SDF party who swore that I “could not be the one to lead the Wimbum people in the 21st Century”. I was thereby invested by the Investiture Committee of the SDF party which charged me as List-Leader with the huge challenging task of winning all the 04 parliamentary seats of the Donga-Mantung Constituency (which was 01 single constituency at that time).
I sponsored the electoral campaigns for Donga-Mantung division, touring all the sub-divisions as List-Leader; and won all 04 seats (Ako/Misaje, Nkambe, Nwa and Ndu) in a landslide victory. You chose me as your trusted leader and bestowed your confidence on me and my political party- the SDF in that election and I became your Member of Parliament in 1997. For four (04) consecutive Parliamentary elections, you supported me and continued to renew your unwavering confidence in me in 2002, 2007 and 2013. With Presidential decrees that extended the mandate of MPs, I have been your leader and served as your representative in Parliament for close to 23 years.
While in Parliament, I have been inspired from Day One by the political ideology of the SDF and its ideals of democracy, social justice and equal opportunities; to legislate and control government actions in a bid to try and effect change with long-lasting consequences on the Cameroonian people in general and my constituents in particular. Some highlights of my actions in Parliament include but are not limited to:
1) Crusading for Good-Governance and the transformation of Cameroon into a modern democratic country as we advocated for the creation of a NATIONAL INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL COMMISSION that would conduct FREE &
FAIR elections impartially and proclaim the results without bias or fear.
This fight led to the transition of the elections supervisory authority from the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MINAT) through the creation of the National Elections Observatory (ONEL 1 and then ONEL 2); to the creation of present-day ELECTIONS CAMEROON (ELECAM).
My colleagues of the SDF Parliamentary Group and I, marched through the streets of Yaoundé dressed in our official attire and were brutalized and molested by riot police and gendarmes. Through our efforts despite being the minority in Parliament however, ELECAM which in my view is still not yet totally independent and impartial but much better than the previous organs; was created in 2006.
2) Fighting for SOCIAL JUSTICE and EQUAL
OPPORTUNITIES for all Cameroonians.
On this front, I controlled government action by actively participating in, and asking Oral Questions during Question and Answer Plenary Sessions in Parliament. I raised debates on bills in Parliamentary Commissions and held government Ministers and officials to task on burning issues; while always upholding the positions and principles of the SDF party.
My colleagues of the SDF Parliamentary Group and I also pioneered the Fight Against Corruption and exposed so many cases; insisting on accountability by civil servants, government officials and all those who hold public office. In fact, we changed the way Parliamentary business was being conducted in the previous
Legislatures.
Furthermore, I made sure my constituency got its share of the national cake in the form of Public Investment projects in the domains of education, water, electricity, roads and healthcare infrastructure; and that served as socio-economic basis for the development of my people. I have also proudly served as the Chairman of the North West Regional Follow-up Committee for the implementation of Public Investment projects as voted in the Finance Law.
3) CLIMATE CHANGE Crusade
My love for the preservation of our environment for future generations led me to become an environmental activist in Parliament, crusading against the adverse effects of climate change on our vulnerable rural communities, our country and our continent, AFRICA. My advocacy in the domain of Climate Change, earned me the confidence of the Rt. Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon as he endorsed my candidature and I was elected by Parliamentarians and delegates from 28 African Parliaments to become the Executive
President of the Pan-African Parliamentarians’ Network on Climate Change (PAPNCC).
I have travelled the World and represented Cameroon and Africa on the global stage, leading Parliamentary delegations at the continental level to participate and negotiate on behalf of Africa at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Council of Parties (COP) summits in:
- Copenhagen, Denmark;
- Rio de Janeiro – Brazil,
- Durban - South Africa,
- Cancun - Mexico,
- Paris – France, and
- Marrakech, Morocco.
We joined African governments and civil society organizations to crusade in defense of the vulnerable continent of Africa, that is today suffering from the depletion of the ozone layer which has been largely caused by the polluting activities of the Advanced Industrialized Countries. We called for a compensation of Africa and our advocacy led to the Paris Climate Accord.
Back in Africa, I initiated “Operation ONE MILLION TREES: One
Woman, One Tree; One Family, One Tree” and pleaded with the Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon to champion this project. Mr. Speaker, accepted to lead a delegation of more than eighty (80) MPs to tour Cameroon and personally sensitize and mobilize rural populations on mitigation and adaptation strategies; as well as fighting climate change and desertification through the planting of trees. It was during this tour that for the first time, Donga-Mantung was honoured to welcome the Right Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly - CAVAYE YEGUIE DJIBRIL in Nkambe.
For these past 23 years, my Parliamentary stewardship has yielded so many fruits as I have accomplished so many uncountable development projects back home in my constituency and Donga-Mantung division as a whole.
I, Hon. Dr. AWUDU MBAYA CYPRIAN shall go down in history as the first ever M.P. for Donga-Mantung that revealed to my constituents that there existed a thing called Micro-Project Grants (a yearly development token that Parliament allocates for each M.P to handle small-scale emergency projects and situations for the welfare of their constituents). Permit me recount some tangible and concrete projects executed during the 23 years of my stewardship, with annual costs far exceeding this meager yearly grant of 8.000.000 FCFA).
I. ELECTRIFICATION
In the domain of electrification, the following have been accomplished: Feasibility studies, lobbying, crusading as well as my personal donation of treated wooden electricity transmission poles and accessories like cables and transformers (as part of the contribution of my constituents) for the electrification of Villages in Nkambe Central sub-division, namely: Tabenken, Wat, Mbah, Kup, Nwangri, Chup, Njap, Mbot, Kungi villages and Bih Sah – Bih - Njeng aglomeration of villages. Villages in Ndu sub-division include: Ntumbaw, Taku, Ntundip, Sop, Wowo, Ngarum.
We were working on projects concerning Njirong, Luh, Mbipgo, Jit, Mbah Fuh, and others to be financed by the African Development Bank and the World BANK; for which funding had already been made available, call for tenders launched, contracts awarded and some villagers already indemnified just before the crisis in the North West and South West broke out.
That notwithstanding, I lobbied and some of our villages in Nkambe and Ndu were included in the Rural Solar Power project that was launched by government some years ago. Due to the crisis and the risk faced by project construction workers; the project has yet again been suspended, although some of the villages like Njirong, Mbanje and Njap already have the infrastructure. Electric poles have been planted on the network and Solar Power Stations with battery back-up systems have been constructed. Many other villages were ear-marked to benefit from this project before the suspension of project work.
ROAD INFRASTUCTURE
With regards to road infrastructure, the following have been achieved:
▪ Construction of Kekengi bridge in Binju, Nkambe;
▪ Construction of Mayeye Bridge in Nkambe;
▪ Construction of three bridges in Tabenken;
▪ Construction of bridge linking Njap and Ngie villages;
▪ Construction of bridge linking Ngie to Mbantu, Nfiengong and Njap village;
▪ Construction of Unity Bridge linking Wat and Mbaa villages over the Mambaa River;
▪ Participated financially in the Construction of the bridge of Mbabi in Wat;
▪ Contribution of 1000 000 FCFA for the rehabilitation of the
AKO-MBANDE road in AKO-Sub Division;
▪ Sponsored the Production of a project document at the cost of 4.000.000 FCFA with three other Members of Parliament from Donga – Mantung Division, which enabled the European Union to provide Funding for some roads in the Division from 1998 to 2007.
II. PALACE RENOVATIONS & COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE
Concerning the renovation of palaces assistance to local communities, the following have benefited from our material supply:
▪ Assistance to Mbot Palace Women’s hall;
▪ Assistance with zinc to Mbot Palace for renovation works;
▪ Assistance with four bundles of zinc to Wat Palace;
▪ Assistance with a stand-by generator to Wat Palace;
▪ Assistance with zinc to the community hall in MBANKA- WAT;
▪ Assistance with zinc to roof the community hall in NTERMBANG - WAT;
▪ Assistance with cement to BINKA Palace for renovation works;
▪ Assistance with plywood and zinc for the Nkambe Palace;
▪ Construction of an eight-room building in Binshua Palace for the
“Wintohs” (Fon’s wives);
▪ Supply of zinc and cement for the renovation of the Binshua Palace;
▪ Assistance with zinc and cement for the construction of the community hall in WAT Palace;
Assistance with zinc and cement for the construction of WANTI Youth Hall in Wat;
▪ Assistance in the construction of the KUNGI Palace;
▪ Construction of the Green House in BINKA - the only hall in
BINKA Palace for now;
▪ Construction of Palace hall and the Women’s hall in NJAP;
▪ Supply of Zinc in Fai Mbayong sub-Palace in Tabenken;
▪ Supply of four bundles of zinc and cement to Mbabi - Wat for the construction of the Youth Hall, CBC Church, Pastor’s residence and sub-Palace in Yakwa;
▪ Supply of three and half bundles of zinc for construction of the
KUP Community Hall;
▪ Supply of four bundles of zinc for KUP Palace;
▪ Supply of three and a half bundles of zinc and cement for
NWANGRI Palace;
▪ Building a house in CHUP Palace;
▪ Assistance with three bundles of zinc and cement to the BONGOM Palace which was unfortunately sold by the chief of that Palace. We came back to their assistance in that project.
▪ Renovation of the Nkambe Community Hall to the tune of
1.250.000 FCFA.
▪ Assisted in the construction of Kindfu – Wat Community Hall.
▪ Assistance for the construction of C.B.C. Church Ngie; ▪ Assistance for the construction of Presbyterian Church Kiendfu
▪ Assistance for construction of Njema & Moh community halls
III. EDUCATION
In the sector of education, I can enumerate the following;
▪ Assistance to the Islamic School Nkambe with two bundles of zinc;
▪ Assistance to Government School Kup with two bundles of zinc;
▪ Assistance to Government School Mbi-Jah, Tabenken with four bundles of zinc;
▪ Assistance with three bundles of zinc to Primary School Ngotong in KUNGI village;
▪ Assistance with four bundles of zinc to roof Primary School Tuku, TABENKEN;
▪ Assistance with three bundles of zinc and cement for construction of the Primary School Bomanso in BINKA;
▪ Assistance to Government School Bansobi – MISAJE with four bundles of zinc;
▪ Assistance with cement and zinc to C.B.C Nkambe Primary School;
▪ Assistance of 1 000 000 FCFA to Presbyterian High School Nkambe after the unfortunate fire disaster that hit the school;
▪ Provision of cement and zinc for the reconstruction of two classrooms in Konya WAT after the destruction of the school by wind.
▪ Donation of 100 benches to NDU Technical College;
▪ Donation of 200 benches to all Primary Schools in NKAMBE; Construction of classrooms at the NJAP Technical College
▪ Assistance to Njema Primary School
▪ Assistance to Mayo Binka Primary School
▪ On-going Construction of the Islamic Development Bank – funded classrooms in:
- Government School Ntermbang
- Government School Binjeng
- Government School Ntambru
- Government School Sop - Government School Fukup – Taku
- Government Secondary School Kungi
IV. HEALTH CARE
Regarding health care, the following can be noted:
▪ A donation of 600 000 FCFA to the Tabenken Catholic Health Centre;
▪ Financial & material Assistance to the Health Post in Chup;
▪ Construction of the present Health Center in NJAP village;
▪ Donated beds, mattresses and other medical equipment to BIH and NJAP Health Centers;
▪ Support to Wanti-Wat Health Centre.
▪ Sponsored door-to-door health campaigns to check the prevalence of HIV and AIDS in Donga-Mantung;
On-going construction and rehabilitation of the NKAMBE Divisional Clinic as funded by the Islamic Development Bank;
▪ On-going Construction of Zoo-technical and Vertinary Centers in Nkambe and Ndu as funded by the Islamic Development Bank.
V. WATER AND SANITATION
Looking at my accomplishments with regard to water and sanitation we have achieved the following:
▪ Financial support to the WAT water extension project;
▪ Financial support to the MBAA water project;
▪ Assistance to the BINSHUA water project after its destruction;
▪ Construction of BIH water point;
▪ Financial assistance to the NJAP water project.
▪ Support for the community water project in Mbanso quarters in Nkambe;
VI. MARKET INFRASTRUCTURE
Concerning market infrastructure, we did the following:
▪ Construction of a shed in Tabenken market
▪ Construction a shed in Wat market
▪ Construction of a shed in Ngie market
Construction of a shed in Njap market
▪ Construction of a shed in Binshua market
▪ On-going Construction of meat sales slabs at the Nkambe Old market and Binka market; as well as in the Ndu and Ntumbaw markets (as funded by the Islamic Development Bank).
VII. SPORTS AND SOCIO – CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
With a very youthful population, I have promoted the social activities of our YOUTH and WOMEN. I can recount the following in the area of sports and socio-cultural activities:
▪ Handed 2500 helmets to local motor-bike riders in Nkambe; Ndu, Misaje and Ako for their protection alongside their passengers, given the high rate of accidents on the bad roads;
▪ Organized football tournaments amongst the youths of Nkambe Central sub-division with a cash prize of 1.000.000 FCFA for several years;
▪ Organized a Gospel Music competition in Nkambe with a cash prize of 1.000.000 FCFA. The competition was graced by top performances from The Tribute Sisters and Richard Kings.
▪ Purchase of a complete Classical Brass Band with Uniforms for band members; as well as sponsoring a three months training of band boys & girls in the city of Douala, so that they could animate public manifestations back at home. This band was handed to the Nkambe Council;
▪ Assistance to some fire disaster-stricken families in Tabenken, Ngie, Konya and Kindfu – Wat;
▪ Financial, material and moral support to all football teams from NDU and NKAMBE for regional competitions;
▪ Financial support to; and negotiation for the compensation of plantation workers who were abusively terminated from the NDU TEA Estate after its privatization;
▪ Yearly provision of logistics for the C.B.C Bible Conference in Nkambe Field;
▪ Financial contribution during fund-raising events within Cameroon and abroad for community development projects under the canopy of the Wimbum Cultural and Development Association (WICUDA).
▪ Financial Assistance to and fund-raising in all churches and mosques in Nkambe, namely:
- Roman Catholic Churches
- Presbyterian Church in Cameroon churches
- Cameroon Baptist Convention churches
- Full Gospel Churches
- Nkambe Grand Mosque and all Muslim faiths.
▪ Fund-raising for the construction of the Nkambe Cathedral
VIII. INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
The following achievements can be highlighted with regards to Information and Communication Technology:
● The National Radio and Television signals continued to be epileptic and or absent and considering the need to keep our populations informed about what is going on in and around them, I felt the need to fill this gap. It is in this light that I spearheaded the putting in place of the Donga – Mantung Community Radio, DMCR. I single-handedly negotiated with the manufacturers in Great Britain purchased and got the equipment transported to Nkambe as well as bringing in technicians from the UK and the
USA for its installation and training of our local volunteers. The MAYOR of Nkambe, Mangoh Jones Tangko assisted me with the sum of 985.000 FCFA as well as with the renovation of the premises housing the Radio station. Today the Radio Station is being run by the Nkambe Council and is listened to in neighboring Bui, Boyo, and parts of Menchum divisions of the North West region and even in Nigeria.
● I then went further to purchase complete radio equipment with a very powerful transmitter and put in place the Savanah Frontier Radio in Nkambe and Ndu single handedly. These were followed by the DAN AWUDU Radio Station in Nkambe. This brings the number of community radio stations in DongaMantung division to four (04); three of which have been fully funded by me, notably Savannah Frontier Radio and Dan AWUDU Radio in Nkambe and Savannah Radio in Ndu. These radio stations played the key role of relaying CRTV news and world news to my constituents in Nkambe, Ndu, Nwa, Ako and Misaje as well as residents of other frontier divisions along the border with Nigeria.
● I equally felt the need to suppress the invading Nigerian culture into our society and so I went further to acquire and set up the first Community Television station in the North West Region, in Nkambe, called the Millenium Television (MTV). This was an achievement that was un-imaginable as Donga-Mantung had for long been deprived of TV signals of the Cameroon Radio and Television (CRTV). Even when the signals came, the local population was disconnected from the programmes of the CRTV which did not reflect their rural expectations. I paid the air tickets and provided accommodation to a team of five volunteers from the UK and USA. I also recruited an audiovisuals professional from Yaoundé on a salary of 200.000 FCFA per month who resided in Nkambe for several years and developed locallyapealing programmes for the residents of Donga-Mantung and neighbouring frontier Divisions.
● It should be noted that these Radios and Television stations generate no income and so for over 15 years; I, Hon. Dr. AWUDU MBAYA CYPRIAN do ensure that the staff and volunteers of these community media groups are paid salaries or allowances.
● I have also been funding the maintenance or replacement of radio and TV broadcasting equipment as well as paying rents, electricity and water bills, all for the sake of the development of my people of Donga-Mantung.
● Apart from bridging the gap in communication that existed; I supported the local multi-media centers that offered computer training and internet service to my people of Donga-Mantung.
While in Parliament I have served in several different Committees of the National Assembly and was elected into the Bureau of the National Assembly becoming Secretary of the Bureau in 2002. I later became Questor of the National Assembly - a post that I have held from 2007 till today; thanks to the confidence of my National Chairman of the SDF, H.E. Ni John Fru Ndi who continued to invest me for re-election in his capacity as Chairman of the Investiture Committee of the SDF. I have also served as a member of the ACP – EU (African, Caribbean and Pacific – European Union) Joint Parliamentary Assembly since
2002, thanks to the confidence of the Right Honourable CAVAYE YEGUIE DJIBRIL, Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon.
I have discharged my duties as M.P. honourably, diligently, tirelessly and selflessly during these past four parliamentary mandates. I AM VERY PROUD of the work that we have accomplished so far.
On the 30th of December 2019 therefore, my mandate as M.P. which has always come from you, my constituents- the Wimbum people, shall officially come to an end; although I shall remain in office as Member of the Bureau until we hand-over to the newly-elected Bureau during the Parliamentary session of March 2020.
I thank the National Chairman of the SDF, H.E. Ni John Fru Ndi for his renewed confidence in me as he recently invested me as candidate to seek re-election at the up-coming Legislative elections slated for the 09th of February 2020.
However,
1- Considering the on-going civil war that has brought about indiscriminate killings, kidnappings against request for ransome and the high rate of insecurity in the North West region; coupled with the de-humanizing conditions in which thousands of my constituents have been subjected to, some of whom have fled to neighbouring Nigeria or sought refuge in the bushes or other towns and villages within Cameroon as Internally Displaced
Persons (IDPs);
2- Mindful of the risk to human life of my constituents who would be caught in cross-fires during any political electoral campaign in the absence of a ceasefire which would be the beginning of the end of this war;
3- Proud of my record as the longest serving M.P. of DongaMantung with a distinguished status of being the “Development
Champion of the Wimbum people” regardless of their political affiliations;
4- In line with my belief in the democratic ideals of the Social
Democratic Front and its firebrand slogan: “POWER TO THE PEOPLE” as the SDF introduced the conduct of Primaries before any elections in Cameroon. Today it would be practically impossible to rally and move delegates from all the corners of Donga-Mantung division and the North West region to converge in the designated premises and vote in any Primaries;
5- Given also that many of my local SDF party officials have either lost their lives, been framed and arrested, lost their family members, seen their homes and property burnt down or have been displaced by the war; whereas many other of my constituents regardless of their political affiliation are on the run for survival;
6- After a deep and thoughtful reflection of the above with my God, my conscience and my family; and given the current circumstances in the North West Region:
I, Hon. Dr. AWUDU MBAYA CYPRIAN,
M.P. for Donga-Mantung Centre Constituency, and Questor at the National Assembly of Cameroon;
DO HEREBY DECLARE THAT I SHALL NOT SEEK REELECTION INTO PARLIAMENT IN THE LEGISLATIVE ELECTION SLATED FOR 09th OF FEBRUARY 2020; GIVEN THAT I HAVE DECIDED TO PUT YOUR SAFETY – THE
SAFETY OF ALL MY CONSTITUENTS FIRST, BEFORE OR ABOVE MY PERSONAL POLITICAL AMBITION OF STAYING IN PARLIAMENT. I MUST NOT GO BACK TO PARLIAMENT UNDER THE CURRENT CIRCUMSTANCES WALKING ON THE BLOOD AND IN DISRESPECT OF ALL MY CONSTITUENTS WHO HAVE LOST THEIR LIVES IN THIS CIVIL WAR.
I AM DEEPLY SORRY TO DISAPPOINT:
1- MY NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, H.E. NI JOHN FRU NDI who still showed his renewed confidence in me by investing me as candidate to the up-coming February 09 2020 Legislative elections;
2- MY SDF COMRADES at the national and local levels with whom I have fought for a democratic change in Cameroon since 1990;
3- MY PARLIAMENTARY COLLEAGUES FROM ACROSS THE POLITICAL SPECTRUM, ADMINISTRATIVE
COLLABORATORS AND STAFF AT THE NATIONAL
ASSEMBLY, with whom I have worked closely in Parliament for the past 23 years;
AND
4- MY DEAR CONSTITUENTS, MY ELECTORATE of all political affiliations and religious backgrounds, whom I have served diligently and impartially for the past 23 years. I appreciate the steadfast support that you have given me during these FOUR AMAZING HISTORIC MANDATES. I am forever indebted to you and I shall remain your LEADER and HUMBLE SERVANT.
I DO HEREBY PLEDGE TO SERVE THE WIMBUM PEOPLE AND MY NATION IN ANY CAPACITY AS THE NEED MAY ARISE IN THE FUTURE WHEN THIS WAR WOULD HAVE ENDED AND THINGS RETURN TO NORMALCY.
…THANK YOU FOR LISTENING…
…GOD BLESS YOU ALL…
Saturday, November 16, 2019
In Desperate Attempt to Restore Peace in S.Cam, PM Dion Ngute Crack Team to N.W on Peace Building Mission & Sensitization on Gov't's Good Will
The Director of Cabinet at the Prime Ministry, has issued a communique, assigning some elites for a sensitisation mission to their respective zones, on resolutions agreed at the Major National Dialogue.
Mr Balungeli C Ebune in a letter addressed to the Governor of the North West region, says a caravan will be dispatched to sensitize and keep the dynamism of the Major National Dialogue (MDN) and to engage a peace campaign to the population.
With instructions from the Prime Minister, the launching ceremony of the exercise will take place on Saturday 16th of November 2019 from 11.00 am in Bamenda.
Bui Division will be led by Hon. Kwe Andrew, Hon. Mbibei Caroline, Nong Donatus, Forgwe Algred, Jaff Romanus, Njodzeka Stephen, the Fon of Mbiame, Rev. Shey John, Senator Kinyang George, Bonjio Quinta, Imam Adamu and Rev. Sergius.
In Mezam Division, Professor Fru Angwafor, Ndumu Vincent, Bar. Sama Francis, Bar. Nico Halle, Senator Regiona Mundi, Ndikum Peter, Mayor Langsi Abel, Immam Schouaibou, Caroline Abongwa and Dr. Nick Ngwanyam will lead the train.
From Donga Mantung division, elites like Ngala Gerard, Shey Jones Yembe, Joe Chebonkeng Kalabuse, Mrs Gabuin Winifred, Madame Monica Nchwa, Mme Ngalla Esther, the Fons of Misaje and Nkambe, Hon. Abe Michael and Hon. Awudu Mbaya are heading the delegation.
In Boyo division, Bishop George Nkuo, Rev. Ncham Godwin, Ardo Musa Haman, Ms. Yong Rosaline Ndang, Ayeah Emmanuel, Bar. Fang Yong Francis, Hon. Njong Evaristus, Hon. Ngam Honore, Awundang Denis, and Ms Nkwain Esther were selected for the mission.
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Fire on the Mountain: Biya Approves Special Status For Anglophone Regions, SDF Boycott Parliament & Senate. Opposition not to go in for 9 Feb Twin Elections in Cameroon
President Paul Biya has told delegates attending the second edition of the Paris Peace Forum that the North West and South West regions will have a special status as stipulated in the constitution.
He made this statement on Tuesday, November 12, 2019, President Paul Biya spoke on security issues in Cameroon. He acknowledged that the problems in the English-speaking regions stems from history, cultural differences which comes from the period of colonialism.
He also said his country has been divided by a culture and civilization which makes thing very difficult. Paul Biya said the problems faced by Cameroon remains vital to the state and giving a special status to the Anglophone regions, didn't imply he was separating or distancing the two regions from the rest of the country.
This is the first time Biya is pronouncing the special status, after the Major National Dialogue. It comes at a time when many were doubtful if he would approve it and what will be the context of a special status region.
He was reacting during a debate platform at the Peace Forum coordinated by business magnate, Mo Ibrahim. Cameroon was at first under German rule, until the first world war, where Britain and France took over and partitioned the country.
The system of divide and rule practiced by colonial masters, divided the population and today there's not only language barrier but a cultural one, which the President says it is unfortunate.
Sunday, November 3, 2019
Boko Harram Leader Sheik in Lastest Outing Sends Dead Threat & Warning to UK- based Nigerian Lawyer Audu Bulama Bukarti.
Boko Harram Leader Sheik in Lastest Outing Send Dead Threatens & Warning to UK- based Nigerian Lawyer Audu Bulama Bukarti.
Below is the full transcript of the 5:22 seconds audio message:
"In the name of Allah. All b praises are due to Allah. Peace and blessings be upon the Prophet. Having said this, my Muslim brothers around the globe, both those we see and those we don’t see, I greet you in the Islamic formula: Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah.
Secondly, I am the leader of Jama’atu Ahlis Sunnah lid Dawati wal Jihad, all praises due to Allah today, Friday, 4 Rabi’ul Awwal 1441 in the Islamic calendar. There are messages that reach us and we know the person who responsible for and he will not succeed.
We are sending him a message to be a proof against him unless he repents. Bulama Bukarti, you have been speaking about Jama’atu Ahlis Sunnah lid Dawati wal Jihad and its Imam, Abubakar ibn Muhammad ash-Shakawiy [that’s the speaker]. You have been saying that we are merely claiming to follow the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and his religion and the People of Tradition and the people.
You say our claims are false and that we do not represent true Islam. Allah knows who is righter [between you and us] and this is Allah’s favour, we pray that He bestow his blessing on us. But you cannot be the judge. Bear my message in your mind, it will be a calamity for you if you don’t repent before Allah or on the Day of Resurrection.
We practice the religion of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) which he and his companions practiced. “What I practice today, I and my companions” (hadith). This is what we wish to die doing this. May Allah kill us doing it. This is like a talk, a warning to you that you may repent. And this declaration, I make Allah as my witness as I talk, by Allah, it will shake you whether you like it or not, even if you deny it. You should fear Allah; we follow the Qur’an and the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and the predecessor (salaf). We want to make the Qur’an and traditions of the Prophet to become the constitution. Even in your language, rules and regulations of a country cannot rule even a cornstalk as even the statements of People of knowledge and understanding needs to be supported with a verse of the Qur’an or hadith of Prophet Muhammad. Even at that, it needs to be true. Whoever lies will be punished by Allah in the afterlife.
These coded statements that I have made will, by Allah, shock your heart. We follow the Ahlis Sunnah wal Jama’a and our followers too and we have justification for our activities. Allah says “Whoever does a good deed – it is for himself; and whoever does evil – it is against the self. Then to your Lord you will be returned.” This is our belief. I would not lengthen my talk to you. You have heard me and it will shake you. You have gone and stayed with Europeans, studying Western education, you are living in a way disapproved by Prophet Muhammad and you think you have authority to speak about us. By Allah, you are nothing. All your statements can be destroyed with one verse of the Qur’an because I am talking with knowledge and, by Allah, I know you understand me, like it or not.
We Jama’atu Ahlis Sunnah lid Dawati wal Jihad follow the creed of Ahlis Sunnah wal Jama’a; we are following the predecessors; we are fighting a jihad. We want to establish an Islamic State; all our acts are based on the Qur’an and Sunnah and interpretation of pious predecessors, that is the pious predecessors. That is where we stand. That is what we have pledged allegiance to do.
I am reporting to you; God has heard us. You should go and do whatever you wish to do; go and say say whatever you wish to say. Bulama Bukarti, you are in trouble. From today, you will not find peace. By Allah, you must repent.
It’s Shekau. All peace and blessings be with the Prophet of Allah. All thanks are due to Allah."
Sunday, October 27, 2019
Mayor Ekema of Buea Council Passes on at 43
The death has been announced of the Mayor of Buea, Ekema Patrick Esunge.
Ekema is said to have succumbed to the cold hands of death at Polyclinique IDIMED, Rue Koloko – Bonapriso in Douala after a malaise. It is believed that the lion-hearted Mayor of Buea suffered from a heart attack Sunday morning although rumours suggest he might have been poisoned Saturday night.
Born September 26, 1976, Ekema shot to prominence when he welcomed President Paul Biya in Buea in February 2014 during celebrations of the country’s independence and reunification.
He was elected councillor of the Buea Council during the 2007 twin elections. He would later become first deputy mayor until a feud between him and the then Mayor, kept him away from Council business.
When Mayor Mbella Moki Charles was elected into the pioneer Senate legislature in April 2013, Ekema Patrick Esunge resurfaced to claim the mayoral seat. He was then installed on Monday 27 May, 2013, at the Buea council hall, to complete Charles Mbella Moki’s term of office.
During the September 30, 2013 municipal elections, the CPDM list won in Buea and on October 16, 2013, Ekema Patrick got a fresh mandate as Mayor of Buea – a mandate that was due to expire on February 29, 2020.
On November 22, 2013, Ekema told the people of Buea in a message that “Change has come to Buea”. His words: “Change has come to Buea. Ekema Patrick Esunge, the Lord Mayor of the Buea Council, thanks the entire population for their fervent support and promises to bring development to the Buea Municipality.”
Indeed, Ekema brought change to Buea. He changed Buea from Mbella Moki’s “Town of Legendary Hospitality” to the “City of Excellence”. He realised many projects although the Buea Central Market FCFA 2.5 billion project never saw the light of day.
His friends were as many as his enemies. It is under his chairmanship that the likes of Councillor Chief Molinge Ikome David (of blessed memory), Councillor Prof. Victor Julius Ngoh, Councillor Thomson Kinge, Councillor Chief Njie Mandenge, Fourth Deputy Mayor Comfort Ojongnkpot and First Deputy Mayor Emmanuel Motomby Mbome were “dismissed” from the council.
Ekema crashed out of the race to become the Section President of the Fako III CPDM in 2015. Something about his Advanced Level Certificate having issues as well as being photographed by a naked photographer put Ekema on almost every lip.
His fight against separatist tendencies in Buea earned him multiple recognitions, the latest being a recognition from the traditional rulers of the South Region. In July 2019, traditional rulers of the South Chiefs Conference crowned Ekema “Nyamoto Kpwatolo” - the great warrior – for his never-seen bravery.
Ekema was married and had many children. He was a member of the Christian Men Fellowship (CMF) of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon and worshipped at PC Molyko. Ekema unfortunately stopped going to church following apparent disagreements with the leadership of the church.
Nigeria Closed borders Plant Gross Economic Hardship & Uncertainty to Neighboring Countries
Nigeria recently partially closed its border with Benin in an effort to stem the smuggling of rice. It then went on to close its land borders to the movement of all goods from Benin, Niger and Cameroon, effectively banning trade flows with its neighbours.
Border closures are not new in Africa. But Nigeria's actions raise important concerns about the seriousness and prospects of regional integration in Africa.
Nigeria acted just three months after it had signed the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. With 55 member countries, a combined GDP of $2.4 trillion and a total population of 1.2 billion, the agreement will create the world's largest free trade area. Its aim is to promote intra-Africa trade, which is abysmally low at 16%.
To restrict trade flows so shortly after this momentous feat is a major blow to integration efforts. It also shows how unprepared African countries might be for free trade. It's hard to see how the free trade deal can increase intra-Africa trade to 60% by 2022, as projected , when it is being undermined from the start.
These early trade tensions between Nigeria and its neighbours are hardly surprising. They underlie some of the fundamental problems that must be addressed before cordial free trade can succeed on the continent.
In the case of Nigeria, Africa accounts for only 13% of its exports and 4% of its imports. These statistics probably underestimate the true volume of trade between Nigeria and its neighbours. But they show that Africa is a dispensable market.
Border closure
Nigeria's economy declined in 2015 and further contracted by 1.6% in 2016 . This was largely due to a worldwide drop in the price of crude oil in 2014. The country has since fallen on hard times. Foreign direct investment inflows have plunged by 55% . There have also been shortages of foreign exchange which have put the Naira in a tailspin, causing the government to implement stringent foreign exchange controls.
Crude oil accounts for over 95% of Nigeria's total exports and 90% of its foreign exchange earnings. This shows that Nigeria has neglected other sectors of the economy.
The recent oil crisis highlighted the need for the country to diversify and restructure its economy. The result was increased attention being accorded the agriculture sector, which had declined significantly since the late 1960s.
Nigeria's 2017 Economic Recovery and Growth Plan aimed to deepen investments in agriculture and increase the sector's contribution to economic growth from 5% in 2017 to 8.4% by 2020. The idea is to revive domestic farming and save on food imports (over $22 billion a year).
It is this national plan that precipitated the border closure. The government wants to protect domestic farmers from cheap imported foodstuff.
While Nigerian rice farmers are happy about their government's actions, there are concerns about whether domestic food production can meet domestic demand. In 2017, demand for rice in Nigeria reached 6.7 million tons, almost double the 3.7 million tons produced domestically.
Since the border closure, the price of a 50 kilogram bag of rice has increased from 9,000 naira ($24) to 22,000 naira ($61).
This is good for the farmers. But it is hurting consumers.
Oil exports and fuel imports
Then there is the bigger problem of government-subsidised petroleum being smuggled out of Nigeria and sold in neighbouring countries.
World Bank data show that between 2010 and 2016, the average pump price of petrol was $0.52 per litre in Nigeria, $1.01 in Benin, $1.14 in Cameroun and 1.04 in Niger. Current data show that petrol is sold at $0.40 per litre in Nigeria and at $0.91 and $1.07 in Benin and Cameroon respectively.
The price difference creates the incentive to smuggle petrol out of Nigeria.
Nigeria's largest export is crude oil, and its largest import is refined oil. Domestic refineries are reportedly operating well below their capacity, causing fuel imports to average 29% of total imports over the past three years. Roughly 90% of fuel in Nigeria is imported, and all of it is subsidised. Last year, the subsidy bill was estimated to reach $3.85 billion.
Smuggling fuel out amounts to the use of public resources to subsidise neighbouring countries. Since the border closure, reports suggest that the delivery of fuel in Nigeria has dropped by 20% and sales by 12.7%.
This suggests that the demand for fuel in Nigeria is high because some of it is bought and smuggled out.
Why the border closure is worrying
African countries have different economic configurations and strategic priorities. The huge number of diverse countries within the free trade area isn't going to make things easy.
Indeed, free trade has its benefits, but it also has costs. Nigeria's bid to protect a declining rice farming industry and save foreign exchange has led to protectionism that defies the principles of a free trade area.
The African Union (AU) has been muted on the issue of the border closures. This might be because it does not yet have detailed institutional arrangements for settling disputes within the free trade area.
Another factor might be that it has been quiet because Nigeria is involved. As Africa's largest economy, the AU courted it earnestly to sign. The agreement needs Nigeria, arguably at whatever cost.
The regional trade bloc ECOWAS has also failed to bring Nigeria to heel. Both Nigeria and Benin are members of the bloc, created in 1975. All it has done so far is to appealfor the borders to be opened. It clearly has no enforcement power.
Nigeria's border closure may be a precursor. More incidents like this can be expected as the realities of free trade kick in. Some countries will lose, others will gain.
The AU needs protocols and measures to manage free trade, as well as programmes to prepare political leaders for the realities that will follow.
The free trade area should not be a mere symbol. It must be fully understood and appreciated for it to succeed.
The Nigeria border closure must be resolved as soon as possible. It is diverting attention and positive energy from matters that can promote the free trade area, such as investments in transport infrastructure, trade data capture and border protection.
More importantly, it is a bad precedent that could reduce other countries' commitments to economic integration in Africa. The AU must act now, or prepare to bury the free trade deal.
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Cameroon Anglophone Struggle Takes a Different Twist as Comrade Tassang Wilfred Writes Lamenting in Jail
DEACON TASSANG WILFRED WRITES
THE AMBAZONIAN STRUGGLE: WHEN EGO AND PASSION BLUR VISION
To the Ambazonian Diaspora,
To
Genevites and anti-Genevites
Dear all,
I once more find myself in the difficult situation of having to write to you from prison. Be it as it may, that I have to do this is absolute, seeing what is happening in the struggle. I have learned with a heavy heart that many of our people in the diaspora have with "good" reason resigned to the struggle, and that many more are contemplating the same. Dear diasporans, I share your frustrations and pain. How I wish things were different! Today though, I come to you in the name of God and on behalf of our suffering people with a message I hope will touch your hearts and make you feel our people's frustrations and pain once more.
On January 17, 2017, the Consortium took a momentous decision and exported the voice of the resistance to the diaspora. My brothers Bara and Tapang were asked to hold the fort, which assignment they carried with brilliance until we were free to take over. And when we did, we had also joined the colony of exiles of Ambazonians. This was according to God's design.
Many have agreed with me that this phase of the struggle was specifically ordained by and commanded of God. From the unset, the Lord knew that this time would come and that the wickedness of Yaoundé would be such that none would be able to raise their voice on the territory. The terror from Yaoundé is so terrifying that even the Church is intimidated in the homeland. It was exactly on account of this knowledge that the decision was taken to export the Consortium. The Lord God in His infinite wisdom had also placed each one of you where you are for a time like this.
Esther 4:13-14 ... Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews.
For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
Indeed, God turned what was supposed to be our curse into Ambazonia's blessing. Your exodus was expected to keep the homeland down forever, but see what God has turned it into? Imagine for one moment what would have happened to the struggle if you were not out there to both speak and foot the bills. Would you now disobey God and abandon your people for any reason whatsoever?
When the children of Israel left Egypt, Pharaoh didn't want to let them go. It is not different with Ambazonia. This much is obvious to all of us. What is not obvious is the tactics of Ambazonia's Pharaoh. To understand these tactics, we have to first and foremost recall to mind why we are running away. Yes, we are running away from annexation and all its ills; discriminations of all sorts, corruption and embezzlement of the public till, oppression and "political suppression", to quote Rev. Father Andrew Ambiezeh of SOCALIM.
58years in these vices have certainly left their mark negatively on our people. As you all can bear witness, these vices are pursuing us on our way out. For the Israelites, their challenges were fear, hunger and thirst. Ambazonia's challenges are perhaps much more but we shall overcome them all if we all stand firm.
On Corruption and Embezzlement
This is Yaounde's trump card. They're masters of this art. Yaoundé doesn't only corrupt people, she lies about it when they fail in their attempt. It was by God's special grace that the struggle didn't miscarry whilst teachers and lawyers were on strike. Yaounde churned out lie after lie concerning how many hundreds of millions we had "collected" from government. Remember also how the very advocates of the struggle relayed these falsehoods and almost caused the people to turn their backs on us. Am I saying that some of my colleagues didn't get compromised? No. What I am saying here is that Yaounde's tactics have not changed. I can state with certainty that it the cacophony going on about embezzlement is presently working against the struggle, and in the interest of the oppressor. Am I saying that leaders have not misappropriated? Again, NO. How can I hold such a position when this evil started under my own very stewardship? In the event where these new allegations were true, thehe question you all in the diaspora must answer is this; "Are embezzlement and misappropriation of struggle funds good enough reasons for anybody to turn their backs on our people? Help me someone. If this were so, then we actually don't know why we are running away. The same ills from which we are running will follow us into Ambazonia. It will be several years after homeland restoration and after hard labour and determination that these same vices shall be rooted off. For now dear people, I implore you to both bear and endure while being watchful.
You cannot for any reason, resign. To do so, I am sure you all know, is tantamount to conceding defeat. Can we surrender after coming this far? That is exactly what Yaoundé wants. And many of you are playing into Yaounde's hands; many others are actually working for Yaoundé without knowing. Yes, I can say it again. I have seen it happen over and over from prison.
On Geneva: to Talk or not to Talk
I am sure that Ambazonians know that all wars end on the table of negotiations. The current genocidal war going on in the homeland will not be different. It shall end on the table.
At this point where both sides of the talk divide are at each other's throat, exposing the very secrets of the struggle and making nonsense of the people's efforts, I feel that I shouldn't be quiet in spite of the fact that I , am only a common teacher, and not a legal luminary. I am not even a student of international relations, talk less of being a diplomat/expert in whatever domain. However, I learned a few things during the few months I spent at the helm of the struggle.
*Secrecy and Discretion: Pillars of Revolutions and Diplomacy
Ours is not the first revolution and quest for statehood restoration. Before ours were the South Sudanese, Eritrean and East Timorese revolutions. On paper, they all are the same but the situational realities are not. The former didn't take place during this social media boom. This is perhaps where the difference lies. But social media or not, do we all need to be practicing communicators and politicians to know the damage that information or the lack thereof can cost an endeavour like ours?
I am not a journalist but I have practiced as one and can say with authority that the information craze that is driving this struggle has done a lot of damage and has certainly caused huge delays. That was why in the Summer of 2017, Foley Hoag, the law firm the struggle had hired put an embargo on information sharing without their prior approval because, said they, we have to chose between satisfying the thirst of our people to know what efforts and strides we were making and letting Yaoundé into every door we were knocking. Of course we all know that Yaoundé has sabotaged many of our efforts because we made noise. Most, if not the entire leadership of the struggle today know that the noise they make is causing more harm than good. Some have taken advantage of the confidential nature of certain transactions to accuse their "rivals" knowing that they cannot come out to explain without making themselves vulnerable to some clauses in international law. This is wickedness.
On the Swiss talks, both the Genevites and anti-Genevites did well at the beginning. Proponents of the talks have done well in that they have let the whole world know that the struggle is ready to talk. Those who didn't go also did well in that they let the world know that the resistance will not be precipitated into just any kind of arrangement in the name of talks. At the unset, to talk and not to talk were both correct. However, what is happening now is absolute madness in the name of defending positions. I hear more of ego than good sense. Ego and passion have blurred their vision. One would have thought that it made sense for the two sides to sit at table and compare notes. Why are we opposed to this project? Why do we have confidence in this project? What is it that we were told and have seen whilst there that have increased our trust in the Swiss? All these are not issues that should be seen in the social media. What kind of revolution is it that does not have classified information? We throw out everything including making very falacious statements that debunk our claims to expertise. How many Ambazonians out there have taken part in such conflict resolutions prior to this? Does someone become a poet by reading poems or is a poet one who has written and published poems?
You all may be "diplomats and or legal luminaries", mastering tenets and principles, but how many revolutions have been run by laid down principles? And where are these laid down by the way? If it were as simple as it is written, Foncha and Muna would have secured restoration in 1995. International law testifies to the fact that the Ambazonian case is cut out. The UN statutes and relating treaties are therefore all in our favour yet we still have to put up a fight for it. How then can anyone claim that this revolution be run according to "as it is written"? Revolutions are generally characterised by disorder and non respect of established orders each one (revolution) being unique, their similarities notwithstanding. Running a revolution during this social media age has turned out to be more tasking than in 1789.
In the midst of all this confusion, I will not join the cacophony by pointing out in this same medium where I think each side is wanting, but will rather have you bear me witness that I have appealed and here again appeal that both the Genevites and anti-Genevites should sit down and reason together. This cannot be done in zoom conferences. There are compatriots out there who are willing to host this project in all aspects. Can you all avail yourselves? If there will be talks, we all must go together or all stay back if we convince ourselves that it is a trap. Anything short of a united front will mean 1961 all over. Yet, I am convinced that this is the generation that God has chosen to right the wrongs of history.
Before I end on this, let me state categorically that it is not a revolutionary sin for the struggle to go all out and lobby for a mediator. In fact, it is the proper thing to do (It would be a sin if we did not). It is our people dieing after all. It is our communities being burned and our kids staying at home. It is therefore in our best interest that mediation should happen soonest. However, we must not throw caution to the wind when doing so. The struggle must be suspicious of all offers to mediate even if it came from the Americans. It is only when we do this that we shall be alert and watchful. In this regard, I should indicate here that the SCNC had several years ago lobbied for mediation even when there was no war, and that under my brief tenure, we also lobbied for a nation to do that. The latter nation is on standby to come in even as an observer in the Swiss process. The reason these efforts were never made known I have made clear above: discretion and confidentiality.
In the same breath, to refuse to give heed to critical objections and to call those who don't trust the Swiss, federalist, is also not in the interest of the struggle. No, it isn't.
I put my reputation on the line to say that I trust both the proponents and opponents of the Swiss project. It is evident that both sides are determined to give our people the best. But it is also evident that both sides continue to work against the struggle in refusing to sit together.
I suggest strongly dear compatriots, that there be a meeting, and if need be, the two sides should secure the services of an internal mediator. This is right and proper to do at this juncture. Once we are reconciled, we should also do a mock negotiation to mimick what we expect to meet wherever.
Ambazonia! I have spoken. Mount pressure on these to get together before these squabbles discourage Ground Zero as it has done to many in the diaspora.
Once, more dear diasporans, the assignment is yours to both talk for ground zero and to put together all that it takes to prosecute this struggle to the end. And for those who feel discouraged, remember that many have sacrificed with their lives; remember that thousands yet languish in jail and are not giving up. I know how much you love your people, I know how much you love us in jail. If you can't control the "Central Treasury", you can at least take control at the micro level, LGA by LGA, County by County.
I came to you in the name of the Lord and depart in His name.
From Prison Principale, Kondengui Yaoundé have I this 19th Day of October 2019, with my own hand written and signed,
Deacon TASSANG Wilfred
THE AMBAZONIAN STRUGGLE: WHEN EGO AND PASSION BLUR VISION
To the Ambazonian Diaspora,
To
Genevites and anti-Genevites
Dear all,
I once more find myself in the difficult situation of having to write to you from prison. Be it as it may, that I have to do this is absolute, seeing what is happening in the struggle. I have learned with a heavy heart that many of our people in the diaspora have with "good" reason resigned to the struggle, and that many more are contemplating the same. Dear diasporans, I share your frustrations and pain. How I wish things were different! Today though, I come to you in the name of God and on behalf of our suffering people with a message I hope will touch your hearts and make you feel our people's frustrations and pain once more.
On January 17, 2017, the Consortium took a momentous decision and exported the voice of the resistance to the diaspora. My brothers Bara and Tapang were asked to hold the fort, which assignment they carried with brilliance until we were free to take over. And when we did, we had also joined the colony of exiles of Ambazonians. This was according to God's design.
Many have agreed with me that this phase of the struggle was specifically ordained by and commanded of God. From the unset, the Lord knew that this time would come and that the wickedness of Yaoundé would be such that none would be able to raise their voice on the territory. The terror from Yaoundé is so terrifying that even the Church is intimidated in the homeland. It was exactly on account of this knowledge that the decision was taken to export the Consortium. The Lord God in His infinite wisdom had also placed each one of you where you are for a time like this.
Esther 4:13-14 ... Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews.
For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
Indeed, God turned what was supposed to be our curse into Ambazonia's blessing. Your exodus was expected to keep the homeland down forever, but see what God has turned it into? Imagine for one moment what would have happened to the struggle if you were not out there to both speak and foot the bills. Would you now disobey God and abandon your people for any reason whatsoever?
When the children of Israel left Egypt, Pharaoh didn't want to let them go. It is not different with Ambazonia. This much is obvious to all of us. What is not obvious is the tactics of Ambazonia's Pharaoh. To understand these tactics, we have to first and foremost recall to mind why we are running away. Yes, we are running away from annexation and all its ills; discriminations of all sorts, corruption and embezzlement of the public till, oppression and "political suppression", to quote Rev. Father Andrew Ambiezeh of SOCALIM.
58years in these vices have certainly left their mark negatively on our people. As you all can bear witness, these vices are pursuing us on our way out. For the Israelites, their challenges were fear, hunger and thirst. Ambazonia's challenges are perhaps much more but we shall overcome them all if we all stand firm.
On Corruption and Embezzlement
This is Yaounde's trump card. They're masters of this art. Yaoundé doesn't only corrupt people, she lies about it when they fail in their attempt. It was by God's special grace that the struggle didn't miscarry whilst teachers and lawyers were on strike. Yaounde churned out lie after lie concerning how many hundreds of millions we had "collected" from government. Remember also how the very advocates of the struggle relayed these falsehoods and almost caused the people to turn their backs on us. Am I saying that some of my colleagues didn't get compromised? No. What I am saying here is that Yaounde's tactics have not changed. I can state with certainty that it the cacophony going on about embezzlement is presently working against the struggle, and in the interest of the oppressor. Am I saying that leaders have not misappropriated? Again, NO. How can I hold such a position when this evil started under my own very stewardship? In the event where these new allegations were true, thehe question you all in the diaspora must answer is this; "Are embezzlement and misappropriation of struggle funds good enough reasons for anybody to turn their backs on our people? Help me someone. If this were so, then we actually don't know why we are running away. The same ills from which we are running will follow us into Ambazonia. It will be several years after homeland restoration and after hard labour and determination that these same vices shall be rooted off. For now dear people, I implore you to both bear and endure while being watchful.
You cannot for any reason, resign. To do so, I am sure you all know, is tantamount to conceding defeat. Can we surrender after coming this far? That is exactly what Yaoundé wants. And many of you are playing into Yaounde's hands; many others are actually working for Yaoundé without knowing. Yes, I can say it again. I have seen it happen over and over from prison.
On Geneva: to Talk or not to Talk
I am sure that Ambazonians know that all wars end on the table of negotiations. The current genocidal war going on in the homeland will not be different. It shall end on the table.
At this point where both sides of the talk divide are at each other's throat, exposing the very secrets of the struggle and making nonsense of the people's efforts, I feel that I shouldn't be quiet in spite of the fact that I , am only a common teacher, and not a legal luminary. I am not even a student of international relations, talk less of being a diplomat/expert in whatever domain. However, I learned a few things during the few months I spent at the helm of the struggle.
*Secrecy and Discretion: Pillars of Revolutions and Diplomacy
Ours is not the first revolution and quest for statehood restoration. Before ours were the South Sudanese, Eritrean and East Timorese revolutions. On paper, they all are the same but the situational realities are not. The former didn't take place during this social media boom. This is perhaps where the difference lies. But social media or not, do we all need to be practicing communicators and politicians to know the damage that information or the lack thereof can cost an endeavour like ours?
I am not a journalist but I have practiced as one and can say with authority that the information craze that is driving this struggle has done a lot of damage and has certainly caused huge delays. That was why in the Summer of 2017, Foley Hoag, the law firm the struggle had hired put an embargo on information sharing without their prior approval because, said they, we have to chose between satisfying the thirst of our people to know what efforts and strides we were making and letting Yaoundé into every door we were knocking. Of course we all know that Yaoundé has sabotaged many of our efforts because we made noise. Most, if not the entire leadership of the struggle today know that the noise they make is causing more harm than good. Some have taken advantage of the confidential nature of certain transactions to accuse their "rivals" knowing that they cannot come out to explain without making themselves vulnerable to some clauses in international law. This is wickedness.
On the Swiss talks, both the Genevites and anti-Genevites did well at the beginning. Proponents of the talks have done well in that they have let the whole world know that the struggle is ready to talk. Those who didn't go also did well in that they let the world know that the resistance will not be precipitated into just any kind of arrangement in the name of talks. At the unset, to talk and not to talk were both correct. However, what is happening now is absolute madness in the name of defending positions. I hear more of ego than good sense. Ego and passion have blurred their vision. One would have thought that it made sense for the two sides to sit at table and compare notes. Why are we opposed to this project? Why do we have confidence in this project? What is it that we were told and have seen whilst there that have increased our trust in the Swiss? All these are not issues that should be seen in the social media. What kind of revolution is it that does not have classified information? We throw out everything including making very falacious statements that debunk our claims to expertise. How many Ambazonians out there have taken part in such conflict resolutions prior to this? Does someone become a poet by reading poems or is a poet one who has written and published poems?
You all may be "diplomats and or legal luminaries", mastering tenets and principles, but how many revolutions have been run by laid down principles? And where are these laid down by the way? If it were as simple as it is written, Foncha and Muna would have secured restoration in 1995. International law testifies to the fact that the Ambazonian case is cut out. The UN statutes and relating treaties are therefore all in our favour yet we still have to put up a fight for it. How then can anyone claim that this revolution be run according to "as it is written"? Revolutions are generally characterised by disorder and non respect of established orders each one (revolution) being unique, their similarities notwithstanding. Running a revolution during this social media age has turned out to be more tasking than in 1789.
In the midst of all this confusion, I will not join the cacophony by pointing out in this same medium where I think each side is wanting, but will rather have you bear me witness that I have appealed and here again appeal that both the Genevites and anti-Genevites should sit down and reason together. This cannot be done in zoom conferences. There are compatriots out there who are willing to host this project in all aspects. Can you all avail yourselves? If there will be talks, we all must go together or all stay back if we convince ourselves that it is a trap. Anything short of a united front will mean 1961 all over. Yet, I am convinced that this is the generation that God has chosen to right the wrongs of history.
Before I end on this, let me state categorically that it is not a revolutionary sin for the struggle to go all out and lobby for a mediator. In fact, it is the proper thing to do (It would be a sin if we did not). It is our people dieing after all. It is our communities being burned and our kids staying at home. It is therefore in our best interest that mediation should happen soonest. However, we must not throw caution to the wind when doing so. The struggle must be suspicious of all offers to mediate even if it came from the Americans. It is only when we do this that we shall be alert and watchful. In this regard, I should indicate here that the SCNC had several years ago lobbied for mediation even when there was no war, and that under my brief tenure, we also lobbied for a nation to do that. The latter nation is on standby to come in even as an observer in the Swiss process. The reason these efforts were never made known I have made clear above: discretion and confidentiality.
In the same breath, to refuse to give heed to critical objections and to call those who don't trust the Swiss, federalist, is also not in the interest of the struggle. No, it isn't.
I put my reputation on the line to say that I trust both the proponents and opponents of the Swiss project. It is evident that both sides are determined to give our people the best. But it is also evident that both sides continue to work against the struggle in refusing to sit together.
I suggest strongly dear compatriots, that there be a meeting, and if need be, the two sides should secure the services of an internal mediator. This is right and proper to do at this juncture. Once we are reconciled, we should also do a mock negotiation to mimick what we expect to meet wherever.
Ambazonia! I have spoken. Mount pressure on these to get together before these squabbles discourage Ground Zero as it has done to many in the diaspora.
Once, more dear diasporans, the assignment is yours to both talk for ground zero and to put together all that it takes to prosecute this struggle to the end. And for those who feel discouraged, remember that many have sacrificed with their lives; remember that thousands yet languish in jail and are not giving up. I know how much you love your people, I know how much you love us in jail. If you can't control the "Central Treasury", you can at least take control at the micro level, LGA by LGA, County by County.
I came to you in the name of the Lord and depart in His name.
From Prison Principale, Kondengui Yaoundé have I this 19th Day of October 2019, with my own hand written and signed,
Deacon TASSANG Wilfred
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