Politics
The security atmosphere in Cameroon has been rather unfriendly to Biya's taste. Boko Haram up north, Anglophone Problem, and the recent failed strike action by some soldiers are some of the thorns in Biya's flesh.
That's certainly why he dispatched the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence to major military headquarters across the nation.
Joseph Beti Assomo embarked on the mission at the weekend . He visited Kolofata, Koutaba...to tell his boys that there was no room for 'indiscipline'.
This perhaps was a strong warning following the strike action by some soldiers fighting the terror group in the Far North.
The men in uniform had voiced their concerns about unpaid bonuses and other expenses some weeks back.
But Biya had reacted like a hungry lion in the land of stray goats.
They were airlifted to Yaoundé the following day, pending 'disciplinary actions.'
Assomo has considered them 'militiamen' , not soldiers. He also reminded the soldiers that they could not compare their pay with that of UN soldiers involved in peacekeeping missions.
Joseph Beti Assomo's delegation also went to assure Biya's loyal ninjas that the country's strong man was with them in wake of sporadic suicide bombings by Boko Haram.
Like every other dictator, Biya loves and protects men who carry arms. After all, every nation relies on men in uniform for security and survival. No doubt the US is what it is today.
- Details
- Rita Akana
- Hits: 1640
Honorable Njingum Musa of the governing Cameroon People's Democratic Movement has been reportedly humiliated by the people of Bangolan in the North West Region. The MP for Ngoketunjia offered 13 cartoons of sugar to the central mosque of the Bangolan village, BaretaNews reports. But before he got on his car, the sugar had been burnt down.
BaretaNews has not stated clearly what should have motivated the people. However, tensions have been on the rise in Bangolan since the beginning of the conflict between the fon and his people more than a year ago.
Fon Chafah Isaac XI has been accused by his subjects of profaning the sacred culture of the land.
This has led to the death of scores of people, as they try to oust the fon.
But the fon has received the unwavering support of government. Otherwise he should be resting somewhere beneath the earth by now.
The people of Bangolan went as far as enthroning a new fon in 2016. But government did not recognize Salim Mbipefah, who later passed away.
Njingum Musa's sugar offers to Muslims of his constituency have almost always been controversial. Sometimes, the problem is posed when beneficiaries want to share the mana from La Repiblique.
Nevertheless, the MP is celebrated by his people for his generous gestures.
- Details
- Rita Akana
- Hits: 1753
The Director of Civil at the Presidency, Martin Belinga Eboutou is reported to have been humiliated in Paris as he tried to negotiate for a tete a tete between Paul Biya and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron.
The high level diplomat who is alleged to be on medical leave in France approached the French Elysie to begin procedures for the high level meeting . But instead of his fellow Director of Cabinet to appear for talks, Belinga Eboutou was received by an attache'e at the President. It still remains unclear whether both parties arrived at any concrete result.
The incident has left majority of Cameroonians smiling over the humiliation of one of Biya's closest disciples. It has also raised speculations as to how much money could have been mobilized for the trip. Since billions of tax payers effort is rumored to have been harnessed to bribe French officials to facilitate the meeting.
Paul Biya has been seeking for a chance to meet Emmanuel Macron since the dramatic election of the 39 year old into the Champs Elysee . He recently held talk with the French Ambassador to Cameroon, Gilles Thibaut who told CRTV reporters at the Unity Palace that a meeting between Biya and Macron is on the pipeline.
The reason behind Biya's desperate move is still unknown . But it's no secret that Macron wants a new order in France- Africa relations with Biya and other sit tight leaders scared of the unknown. The silence of the France's strong man over the Africa issue since his coming to power has unsettled most leaders including Biya who might want to use the meeting to size up how the French man sees him. The Anglophone crisis , the 2018 Presidential election and a potential Devaluation of the Franc CFA are some issues giving him sleepless nights and Macron's position on these files will enable Biya know where he is treading.
- Details
- Hits: 6139
The recent declaration by Philemon Zo'o Zame, Director General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Agency proscribing the use of English at the institution has brought to focus the ability of the National Commission for the Promotion of Bilingualism and Multi culturalism to resolve issues emanating from the language conflict in the country.The Bulu native categorically told Anglophones at the Agency to either speak French or shut-up. He shamelessly affirmed he doesn't understand English and so Anglophones must toe his line.
It is clear that Zo'o Zame's declaration is anti constitutional considering that English and French are the two official languages enshrined in the Constitution . And at a time when the country is going through a protracted stalemate as a result of the uneven use of the two languages, prompt action ought to have been taken against the official.
Almost a week after that incident, the Bilingualism Commission which claimed it is ready for work ought to have had that as its first file. But it has stayed mute, in utter indifference to the spiral effects of such statements might result in. Not even a Communique has been issued.
As if to make matters worse, the Prime Minister, Thursday June 23 appeared to to have confirmed how powerless the Commission is against those who violate the country's Bilingual status. While taking questions from MPs in Yaounde, Hon Paul Nji Tumasang asked the Head of Government to tell Cameroonians what punishment await those who fail to respect the equal status of English and French as prescribed in the Constitution. Philemon Yang shockingly told the National Assembly that "...the law does not see punishment for not using the language as we speak."
Critics have been quick to conclude that Biya's Bilingualism watchdog is doomed to fail. They question why sanctions can not be taken against those who breach the constitution. Besides , the powers of the said Commission they argue ought to have been strengthened through a Bill which give it powers to enforce the equal use of both languages and sanction defaulters. It is commonplace to still see the systematic erosion of the English language in public structures nationwide, leaving them to describe Government's move to enforce bilingualism as timid and cosmetic.
- Details
- Hits: 2810
Two members of the National Assembly were denied access to ask questions to members of government on 21 June due to what the speaker of the house termed indecent dressing.
Martin Oyono from the governing CPDM and Fusi Namekong of the leading opposition movement SDF were considered indecently dressed by Cavaye Yeguie, according to La Nouvelle Expression.
Both men claimed to have worn traditional attires. Honorable Fusi Nmekong argued that he had put on his North West traditional regalia, which speaker termed a jumper.
Every attempt by SDF to make Cavaye change his decision proved futile.
“Those who come to the National Assembly with short-sleeve shirts, I don’t let them speak. I have already sanctioned parliamentarians for that. You don’t come to the chamber with just any kind of attire,” Cavaye had told Martin Oyono.
Martin Oyono reportedly wore a jacket with short sleeves, which looked very much like a military uniform.
In the meantime, some members of the National Assembly argue that there is no dress code for the chamber.
Apparently, Cavaye wants everybody to get lost in a pile of clothes, the “ngandura”, as he does.
- Details
- Ashuh John
- Hits: 1217
Ever since the struggle to restore Ambazonia from the clutches of the colonial slave masters; La Republic, the silence of our women has been worrisome, but for a handful who in very confident and consistent strides, are making their voices heard. While some left their families and children behind and ran into exile where they continue working underground in support of the struggle, to the delight of La République, many, both back home and abroad have relented their efforts to the expense of our collective and legitimate push towards the restoration of our statehood.
We know of Esther in the bible who stood in there for her people who were to be wiped out by the enemy. She called on her people to fast and pray as she prepared to meet the king. We know the results; she was victorious. Delilah cajoled Samson to tell him the secret behind his strength; of course he did and he was destroyed. Winnie Mandela led the South African women against apartheid and positive results were achieved. What about the women in Liberia? They rose up against oppression and the result was favourable.
Talk about Rosa Parks in America; it was a "one woman show", and today her iconic defiance in the face of adversity has inspired many women worldwide to stand up and champion the fight against all sorts of oppression thereby bringing into fruition, the much needed aspiration of "feminine" role models especially for young girls. A typical example is the First Minister of Scotland; Nicola Sturgeon; who against all odds is still fighting strong for Scotland to leave the United Kingdom albeit an unsuccessful referendum that she vehemently campaigned for a few years ago.
Another fascinating example is the State Counsellor, (PM) of Myanmar; Aung San Suu Kyi, who after 15 years under house arrest, for opposing the government against corruption came out, muster her people behind her, and won a landslide 86% majority seats in the country's Assembly of the Union elections in 2015. She has inspired the whole nation; both men and women to stand firm against tyranny and in 1991 she gained a much deserved international recognition by winning the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway.
I know the Ambazonian women are powerful and prayerful. Let us increase the pumping of the bellows so the flame could be hotter. Our enemies have no power because our sovereign and all-powerful God controls the universe and that includes our enemy; La Republic. They cannot frustrate God's good plan or his promised protection and victory.
TINA NGANDA,
JOURNALIST/ACTIVIST
- Details
- TINA NGANDA
- Hits: 2220
Subcategories
Biya Article Count: 73
# Paul Biya and his regime
Explore the political landscape of Cameroon under the rule of Paul Biya, the longest-serving president in Africa who has been in power since 1982. Our Paul Biya and his regime section examines the policies, actions, and controversies of his government, as well as the opposition movements, civil society groups, and international actors that challenge or support his leadership. You'll also find profiles, interviews, and opinions on the key figures and events that shape the political dynamics of Cameroon.
Southern Cameroons Article Count: 549
.# Southern Cameroons, Ambazonia
Learn more about the history, culture, and politics of Ambazonia, the Anglophone regions of Cameroon that have been seeking self-determination and independence from the Francophone-dominated central government. Our Southern Cameroons section covers the ongoing conflict, the humanitarian crisis, the human rights violations, and the peace efforts in the region. You'll also find stories that highlight the rich and diverse heritage, traditions, and aspirations of the Southern Cameroonian people.
Editorial Article Count: 885
# Opinion
Get insights and perspectives on the issues that matter to Cameroon and the world with our opinion section. We feature opinions from our editors, columnists, and guest writers, who share their views and analysis on various topics, such as politics, economy, culture, and society. Our opinion section also welcomes contributions from our readers, who can submit their own opinions and comments. Join the conversation and express your opinions with our opinion section.
