Political Showdown: Atanga Nji Paul Clashes with Opposition, Sparks Nationwide Debate

Yaoundé, May 28, 2024 — The political landscape in Cameroon has become increasingly charged, with Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, issuing stern warnings to opposition figures.

In a cryptic release on May 23, the minister vowed to make life difficult for certain politicians, accusing them of undermining President Paul Biya and potentially disrupting the upcoming 2025 presidential elections.

While Minister Atanga Nji refrained from naming names, the targets of his ire were clear: Prof. Maurice Kamto of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) and Hon. Cabral Libii, leader of the Cameroonian Party for National Reconciliation (PCRN). The minister hinted at legal repercussions, even challenging the parliamentary immunity that protects Hon. Libii.

The opposition responded swiftly. Prof. Kamto, a seasoned political leader, minced no words. In a statement released on May 25, he declared that the MRC and its supporters would no longer tolerate violence within the political arena. He criticized Minister Atanga Nji’s characterization of opposition leaders as mere attention-seekers, asserting that it was the minister himself who operated outside the bounds of the law.

“Enough is enough,” Prof. Kamto asserted. “Peace will prevail in our country if we collectively uphold the laws of the Republic. Rigging elections and stifling other parties’ activities to favor the ruling CPDM party is unacceptable.”

The MRC leader reiterated his party’s readiness to confront the current regime head-on in the 2025 presidential race. He emphasized that peace would only be possible if those in power acted responsibly and respected democratic principles.

“There’s no use pointing fingers and blaming others,” Prof. Kamto stated firmly. “The regime cannot deny opposition parties their rights while simultaneously attributing potential violence to them.”

Hon. Cabral Libii, undeterred by the minister’s threats, also fired back. The embattled PCRN leader called for a united front against any attempts to suppress political dissent. He reminded Cameroonians that their collective voice mattered and that they would not be silenced.

International legal expert Barrister Akere Muna, human rights advocate Felix Nkongho Agbor, and political scientist Dr. Aristide Mono joined the chorus of dissent. They condemned Minister Atanga Nji’s tactics and urged citizens to remain vigilant.

As the countdown to the 2025 elections continues, Cameroon stands at a crossroads. The echoes of Minister Atanga Nji’s warning reverberate through the nation, but the opposition remains resolute. The struggle for democracy, accountability, and justice persists, even as the political temperature rises.