Nkambe Explosion: Paul Biya Condemns as a "Terrorist Attack" While Ignoring Root Cause

In response to the tragic explosion during the national youth day celebrations in Nkambe, President Paul Biya has condemned the act as a "terrorist attack" perpetrated by "cowardly criminals."

Amidst the aftermath of the Nkambe explosion, President Paul Biya has swiftly condemned it as a "terrorist attack." However, conspicuously absent from his statement is an acknowledgment of the root cause behind such incidents. The longstanding socio-political grievances and unrest in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon, often characterized by marginalization and calls for greater autonomy, serve as the backdrop against which such acts occur.

While addressing the immediate threat posed by terrorist acts is crucial, a comprehensive approach must also address the underlying issues fuelling discontent and violence. Ignoring these root causes risks perpetuating the cycle of violence and instability in the affected regions.

The root causes of the ongoing crisis in Cameroon, particularly in the Anglophone regions, are complex and multifaceted. While President Biya and other government officials have condemned the recent terrorist attack in Nkambe, it is crucial to address the underlying grievances and issues that fuel violence and instability in the country.

One key aspect that needs to be addressed is the arbitrary judicial response and human rights violations perpetrated by both state security forces and armed armed groups. There have been reports of arbitrary arrests, detentions, and violations of freedom of expression, with individuals being targeted for speaking out against atrocities committed by both sides of the conflict. The lack of transparency in investigations into human rights abuses raises concerns about impunity and accountability.

Additionally, longstanding grievances and conflicts, such as land disputes between different ethnic groups, are exacerbating tensions and contributing to the violence. Discriminatory and inflammatory speech targeting certain ethnic groups, such as the Mbororo Fulani herders, further escalate the situation and perpetuate divisions within society.

To address these challenges effectively, it is essential for the government to engage in genuine dialogue with all stakeholders, including representatives from the Anglophone regions and civil society organizations. This dialogue should aim to address the root causes of the conflict, ensure accountability for human rights abuses, and promote inclusive governance and respect for the rights of all citizens.

Furthermore, efforts to promote reconciliation, foster social cohesion, and address the socioeconomic grievances of marginalized communities are vital for achieving lasting peace and stability in Cameroon. Only through a comprehensive and inclusive approach can the country move towards sustainable peace and address the root causes of the conflict.