SONARA Leadership Change Reignites Debate on Anglophone-Francophone Disparity in Cameroon

The appointment of Harouna Bako as the new Director-General of SONARA, replacing Jean Paul Simo Djonou, has sparked discussions regarding the longstanding issue of disparity between Anglophones and Francophones in government appointments in Cameroon.

Anglophone communities have often voiced complaints of marginalization and underrepresentation in key positions within the state apparatus. This sentiment is exacerbated by the observation that many critical roles in government, including ministerial positions and leadership positions in state corporations, are predominantly filled by Francophones.

For example, key ministerial portfolios such as defence, finance, and the Secretary General at the Presidency have historically been held by Francophones, with no representation from Anglophones since reunification in 1961. Similarly, within the ruling CPDM party, the position of Secretary General of the Central Committee has never been occupied by an Anglophone, despite the party's inception in Bamenda.

The case of SONARA, located in the Anglophone region of Limbe, is particularly highlighted as a symbol of this disparity. Despite its geographical location, SONARA has never had an Anglophone as General Manager or assistant General Manager. Additionally, a significant majority of its senior and junior staff are Francophones, with French being the unofficial working language.

The appointment of Harouna Bako, perceived to be close to influential figures within the government, as the new CEO of SONARA further underscores these concerns. Bako's rapid succession of CEO positions, including at Cotco and the Autonomous Port of Kribi, raises questions about the extent of influence and networks in Cameroon's governance structure.

Overall, the appointment of Bako and the broader issue of disparity in government appointments serve as reminders of the challenges facing Cameroon in achieving equitable representation and inclusivity across linguistic and regional divides.