Controversial Allocation: Public Funds for VIP Funeral Sparks Outcry Amidst Healthcare Crisis

In a recent revelation that has stirred public outrage, Ngoh Ngoh, a government official, released 40 million CFA francs of public money to cover the funeral expenses and repatriation of the remains of the late Professor Joseph Owona, a controversial minister and member of the constitutional council of Cameroon.

This decision, as reported by Cameroonian whistleblower N'zui Manto, comes at a time when the president has called for austerity measures, urging ministers to cut expenditures in their ministries.

The allocation of such a substantial amount for a VIP funeral has ignited criticism, especially as average Cameroonians face dire situations in hospitals. Reports from Yaoundé highlight cases of citizens being imprisoned in hospitals due to unpaid bills, while others succumb to cholera and accidents caused by the deteriorating state of roads.

The secretary general's press release to the finance minister requesting the funds has raised eyebrows, questioning the prioritization of resources. The stark contrast between the release of public funds for a high-profile funeral and the healthcare struggles of ordinary citizens underscores the growing disparity in resource allocation.

As the controversy unfolds, the public demands transparency and accountability, urging authorities to address the pressing healthcare issues facing the nation. The juxtaposition of lavish expenditures on VIP funerals against the backdrop of healthcare crises emphasizes the need for responsible fiscal management and a fair distribution of resources to meet the essential needs of all citizens.