Here is the New Configuration of the Cameroon Rubber Stamp National Assembly as Proclaimed by the Kangaroo Court

 By Devoe Nih

 The Supreme Court sitting in lieu of the Constitutional Council has proclaimed the results of the September 30, 2013 Legislative elections. As predicted by political pundits, the hands of the judges were not tied but yet to majority of Cameroonians, the fact that all the petitions submitted by political parties were rejected has been seen as a kangaroo decision. However, the event was attended by government ministers, heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Cameroon, civil society organizations and host of national and international journalists. This solemn ceremony which took place on Thursday October 17 was presided over by Supreme Court Chief Justice, Alexis Dipanda Mouelle.
 In all, 29 political parties participated in the legislative elections and the total number of registered voters stood at 5,481, 226. Out this number, 4,208, 796 participated while 1, 272, 430 abstained giving a general participation rate of 76.79 %. Notwithstanding, 185, 503 null ballots were casted while 4,023, 293 valid ballots were casted at the polls.
A closer look at the new dispensation of the Lower House paints a picturesque of CPDM having an obese majority with 148 Parliamentarians out of 180. If the ruling party has lost five seats (due mainly to muscular comeback of UPC party) as compared to the previous legislature, the CPDM benefits greatly from the majority which allows the party to govern the country without making alliances as was the case in 1997. However, the CPDM party won all the seats in the South and East regions but managed to grasp some few seats in the Northwest, West and Littoral region which traditionally were SDF fief. In the same vein, NUDP, UDC, MRC and MDR parties also grasped one seat each. It should be noted that NUDP also emerged by showing it strength in the Far north Region while UDC of Adamu Ndamu Njoya carved it traditional niche in the Noun Division. Maurice Kamto's party which is barely a year old also won one seat which is indicative while the party of Cmeroon government vuvuzela Issa Tchiroma could not win a seat, as will as 289 others. However, political observers are of the opinion that the rigging mechanism of the ruling CPDM is so vast and powerful that even a hundred opposition parties put together can’t overpower it. Here below is the new political landscape in the Lower House.

Adamawa Region:
 Djerem
Dahirou Ahmadou(NUDP)
Faro et Deo
Aboubakar Ibrahim (CPDM)
Mayo Banyo
1- Ibrahim Dewa (CPDM)
2-Mme Vedjou Esther (CPDM)
Mbere
1-Baoro Theophile (CPDM)
2-Yaya Doumba Marius (CPDM)
3-Mme Halia Moussa Moufta(CPDM)
Vina
1-Ali Bachir(CPDM)
2-Mme Zoubainatou Salihou(CPDM)
3-Koulagna Abdou(CPDM)
Total
CPDM =9
NUDP= 1
Centre Region
Haute Sanaga
1-Etong Hilarion(CPDM)
2-Mme Abomo Fama Marguerite Aline (CPDM)
Lékié East
1-Ndongo Essomba Jean Bernard (CPDM)
2-Mme Epondo Fouda Cecile Marie (CPDM)
3-Koa Luc (CPDM)
Lékié West
1-Eloundou Barnabe(CPDM)
2-Nyassa Epse Bekolo Ebe Julienne (CPDM)
Mbam et Inoubou
1-N’nolo Epse Onobiono Marie Suzanne(CPDM)
2-Matsang Seyi Mama(CPDM)
3-Mandio William Peter(CPDM)
Mbam et Kim
1-Mgbatou Pierre(CPDM)
Mefou et Afamba
1-Melingui Roger(CPDM)
2-Koa Mfegue Laurentine Epse Mbede(CPDM)
Mefou et Akono
1- Ada Owono Epse Nguini Effa Marie (CPDM)
Mfoundi
1-Ntsama Belinga Jeanne Epse Ottou(CPDM)
2-Djomgoue Paul Eric(CPDM)
3-Emah Etoundi Vincent De Paul(CPDM)
4-Ongola Omgba Jean Simon(CPDM)
5-Nanga Epse Menana(CPDM)
6-Ahanda Assiga Yves Martin(CPDM)
7-Pangmashi Roland Fue(CPDM)
Nyong et Kelle
1-Sende Pierre (Upc)
2-Bapooh Lipot Rober (Upc)
3-Ngo Nyaga Epse Djon Ii (Upc)
Nyong et Mfoumou
1-Nkodo Dang Roger(CPDM)  
2-Mballa Ngodo Catherine Epse Mfoula(CPDM)
Nyong et Soo
Mbarga Assembe Luc Roger(CPDM)
Mekongo Helene Epse Atangana(CPDM)
Total
CPDM= 25
UPC= 3
East Region
Boumba et Ngoko
1-Gbayanga Robert(CPDM)
2-Dope Honorine Epse Assognolebot(CPDM)
Haut Nyong
1-Mebande Brigitte(CPDM)
2-Ekanga Abate Joachim(CPDM)
3-Za’abe Janvier Sulver(CPDM)
Kadey
1-Dimbele Boui(CPDM)
2-Mme Man Jacqueline Christiane(CPDM)
3-Danata Paul(CPDM)
Lom et Djerem
1-Kombo Gberi(CPDM)
2-Tak Bienvenu(CPDM)
3-Mme Ngbanbaye Antoinette(CPDM)
Bilan :
CPDM= 11
Far North
Diamaré Centre
1-Sali Dairou(CPDM)
2-Amadou Adji (NUDP)
Diamare North
1-Hamadou Sali(CPDM)
Diamare West
1-Zondol Herssesse(CPDM)
Diamare South
1-Sali Boubadjan(CPDM)
Logone et Chari
1-Kamssouloum Abba Kabir(CPDM)
2-Ali Adjit(CPDM)
3-Mme Mariam Goni(CPDM)
4-Sassouan Hirihiri(CPDM)
Mayo Danay East
1-Manamourou Epse Silikam(CPDM)
2-Nikina Pierre(CPDM)
3-Bouba Jean Taida(CPDM)
Mayo Danay North
1-Bara Julien(CPDM)
Mayo Danay South
1-Laoussou Pierre (MDR)
Mayo Kani North
1-Haman Tchiouto(CPDM)
2-Boulou Nguizi Joseph(CPDM)
3-Mme Madjele(CPDM)
Mayo Kani South
1-Temwa(CPDM)
2-Mme Aminatou(CPDM)
Mayo Sava
1-Cavaye Yeguie Djibril(CPDM)
2-Abba Malla(CPDM)
3-Adama Epse Djibrine(CPDM)
4-Salomon(CPDM)
Mayo Tsanaga North
1-Gonondo Jean(CDPM)
2-Gondji Elias(CPDM)
3-Viche Taga(CPDM)
4-Mme Kwarmba Solange(CPDM)
Mayo Tsanaga South
1-Djibrilla(CPDM)
Mayo Tsanaga Sud East
1-Dougouf Djonkio Ali(CPDM)
Total :
CPDM= 27
NUDP= 1
MDR= 1
Littoral Region
Moungo North
1-Sime Pierre(CPDM)
2-Eyoum Minono Epse Epoube Lydienne(CPDM)
3-Essame Joseph Ernest Pierre(CPDM)
Moungo South
1-Mpacko Kotto Jean Claude(CPDM)
2-Mbapte Jean Baptiste(CPDM)
3-Mme Dissake Nee Ekoka Marguerite Helene(CPDM)
Nkam
1-Komba Gaston(CPDM)
Sanaga Maritime
1-Moutymbo Epse Ayayi Rosette Juliette(CPDM)
2-Mboui Joseph(CPDM)
3-Banlog Polycarpe(CPDM)
Wouri East
1-Ngahane (CPDM)
2-Elise Ndongo Moutome Epse Pokossy Ndoumbe(CPDM)
3-Nintcheu Jean Michel (SDF)
4-Souob Lazare (MRC)
Wouri Centre
1-Dooh Collins Albert Kouoh(CPDM)
2-Mme Marlyse Rose Douala Bell Nee Dimodi Tongo(CPDM)
3-Joshua Nambangi Osih (SDF)
Wouri  West
1-Edimo Ndoumbe Oscar(SDF)
Wouri South
1-Owona Kono Joseph Hyacinthe(CPDM)
Total:
CPDM= 15
SDF= 3
MRC= 1
North Region
 Bénoué East
1-Aliyoum Fadil(CPDM)
2-Mme Mai Rachel(CPDM)
Bénoué West
1-Ali Mamouda(CPDM)
2-Mme Oumoul Koultchoumi Epse Ahidjo Mohamadou (NUDP)
Faro
1-Maounde Leonard(CPDM)
Mayo Louti
1-Amadou Mohaman (NUDP)
2-Mme Douvaouissa Aissa Hamadi(NUDP)
3-Harouna Nyako(CPDM)
4-Todou(CPDM)
Mayo Rey
1-Bello Limane (CPDM)
2-Mme Fadimatou Sambo(CPDM)
3-Yaouba Abdel Aziz(CPDM)
Total :
CPDM=  9
NUDP= 3
North West Region
Boyo
1-Njong Evaritus Ndim (SDF)
2-Wainachi Nentoh Honourine (SDF)
Bui Centre
1-Banadzem Joseph Lukong (SDF)
2-Mbiye Caroline (SDF)
 Bui West
1-Kwei Andrew Mngo(CPDM)
Bui South
1-Wirba Joseph Mbiydzenyuy (SDF)
Donga Mantung Centre
1-Awudu Mbaya Cyprian (SDF)
2-Ngala Esther Ntala (SDF)
Donga Mantung East
1-Genesis Mbucksek(CPDM)
Donga Mantung West
1-Abe Michael Ndra(CPDM)
Menchum North
1-Ndong Larry Hills (SDF)
Menchum South
1-Wallang Richard Ebua(CPDM)
Mezam Centre
1- Fobi Nchinda Simon (SDF)
Mezam North
1-Fusi Naamukong Wilfred Aziya (SDF)
Mezam South
1-Nji Tumasang Paul (SDF)
Momo East
1-Mbah Ndam Joseph Njang (SDF)
2- Edema Enih Mbah (SDF)
Momo West
1-Enwe Francis Abi(CPDM)
Ngoketunjia North
1-Njingum Musa Mbutoh(CPDM)
Ngoketunjia South
1-Banmi Emmanuel Dingha(CPDM)
Total
SDF= 13
CPDM= 6
West Region
Bamboutos
1-Wa Mathurin Martial(CPDM)
2-Nzougnou Dit Fotsa Ngong(CPDM)
3-Manfouo David(CPDM)
4-Kegne Mafong Josephine Epse Fotso(CPDM)
Haut Nkam
1- Juimo Siewe Claude(CPDM)
2-Mme Ndengue Nya Bernadette (CPDM)
3-Wantou Siantou Lucien (CPDM)
Hauts Plateaux
1-Datouo Theodore(CPDM)
2-Mme Fotso Nee Chebou Kamdem Faustine Villanneau(CPDM)
Koung-Khi
1-Kouinche Albert(CPDM)
2-Mme Fotso Laure Pauline(CPDM)
Menoua
1-Fossi Jacob(CPDM)
2-Madio Gnitidem Odette Louise Epse Melaga(CPDM)
3-Youwo Bernard(CPDM)
4-Mme Emabot Brigitte(CPDM)
5-Nguefack Placide(CPDM)
Mifi
1-Kankeu Joseph(CPDM)
2-Deffo Oumbe Sangong (Sdf)
Nde
1-Feutheu Jean Claude (CPDM)
2-Dzite Epse Ngassam Therese (CPDM)
Noun -Centre
1-Mme Tomaino Ndam Njoya Hermine Patricia (UDC)
2-Mfouapon Alassa(UDC)
3-Mme Samba Mariama(UDC)
4-Mbouombouo Mama(UDC)
Noun -Nord
1-Nsa Moussa (CPDM)
Total :
CPDM= 20
UDC= 4
SDF=1
South Region
Dja et Lobo
1-Mvondo Assam Bonaventure (CPDM)
2-Nnama Marie Therese Epse Essame(CPDM)
3-Monessel Prosper-Merime Theodore Alexandre(CPDM)
4-Mbe Assae Mendomo Theodore(CPDM)
5-Bekono Ebah Pauline Epse Ndoumou(CPDM)
Ocean
1-Mme Biloa Tsilla Zitha Marie Esabelle(CPDM)
2-Oyono Martin(CPDM)
Mvila
1-Atangana Aligui Cecile Catherine Epse Mendouga(CPDM)
2-Zam Jean Jeacques Noël(CPDM)
3-Nlang Martine Epse Ngbwa(CPDM)
Valée du Ntem
1-Mbiam Emmanuel(CPDM)
Total :
CPDM=11
South West
Buea Centre
1-Lisinge Arthur Ekeke (CPDM)
Fako East
1- Fritz Ngeka Etoke(CPDM)
2-Mme Etombi Ikome Gladys(CPDM)
Fako West
1-Emilia Mojowa Lifaka(CPDM)
Koupe Manengouba
1-Ngujede Ngole Robert(CPDM)
2-Aleh Eyabi Clarah(CPDM)
Kumba Centre
1-Mbanya Bolevie Petnga (SDF)
Lebialem
1-Ateawung Foju Bernard (CPDM)
Manyu
1-Nsosie Ebah Susana Epse Opku(CPDM)
2-Enow Tanjong(CPDM)
3-Igelle Elias Terhemen(CPDM)
Meme West
1- Martin Atinda Mboni(CPDM)
Ndian(CPDM)
1-Mary Muyali Boya Epse Meboka(CPDM)
2-Njume Peter Ambang(CPDM)
3-Ngalle Daniel Etongo(CPDM)
Total :
CPDM=15
SDF=1
Grand total
CPDM=148
SDF:=18
NUDP=5
UDC= 4
UPC=3
MDR= 1
MRC=1

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Mbgata Sammy Nforkemba: Self Motivated Sparkling Mayor Elect of Misaje

Mbgata Sammy: Mayor of Misaje Council

 By Fai Cassian Ndi
The question critics would ask is surely when was it ever the case that any electoral system provided the kind of resolution the worries of the masses especially when majority of those running for public offices are being dictated by their parties?
In a quirk of fate, Mbgata Sammy Nforkemba in the afternoon hours of September 16 demystified the political myth surrounding the former mayor of Misaje, Nkenda Simon, his closest rival for mayorship. Mbgata Sammy had shown proofs of demystifying the power of incumbency  at the polls if he was to be challenged, but fate reserved it the other way that he won unchallenged. Some mayors are imposed by party; others are elected democratically while others fight their way to the mayoral throne through hard work and dedication. But Sammy Mbgata was born with the gigs of it. He is a charismatic and pragmatic leader. During the last municipal elections, Sammy was the head of the CPDM council list and since in local elections, people vote persons and not political parties, he was massively voted.
The truth is that Sammy mustered enough votes from Bebekette to consolidate his ambitions for mayorship. Sammy’s overwhelming victory was made possible as a result of his actions as Section President and his lobbying skills in fostering development efforts. Early this year, he lobbied and obtained EU funding for the construction of the bridge linking Sabongida to Dumbu. This former municipal treasurer of the Nkambe council has proven his worth when he took over the Bebekette Cultural and Development Association and revamped it to meet present day challenges. More so, Mbgata Sammy is a gifted mobiliser and he clutches with the God given charm that every time he takes a direction, his true followers are many.   
The Man
Mbgata Sammy is pleasantrily an attractive man, down to earth and soft-spoken too.  He is also a good public speaker yet very strict and firm in his decisions. This former municipal treasurer of Belo council and Nkambe council is a bulk of talent when it comes to management of resources.
As great men will always have great ideas, he rallied the elite(s) of Bebekette to revamp the ailing development association. He also donated computers to GSS Dumbu and for more than three years now has been at the forefront as a catalyst of development. No one would deny the fact that Sammy Mbgatta is greatly loved by his people. Some years back, Sammy Mbgata embraced politics wholeheartedly when he gave his rival a bashing defeat to take over the position of CPDM section President of Misaje. But before that at a very tender age, he was elected deputy mayor of Misaje council, a position he later dumped when he passed the entrance into CEFAM . At CEFAM he graduated in flying colours as a council technician. He is also a traditionalist given that he was given a red feather for his contribution to village development. Besides, Sammy is very perfect in organizational proficiency, he has shown is worth as a politician by humble working for the interest of the party reasons why he enjoys alot of support from Minister Fuh Calistus and other local party colleagues.
Some mayors when elected transform themselves into demi-gods and instead of serving the population, it is the reverse. But on the contrary, Mbgatta is full of character, wisdom and conscience. People who frequent him are shock to see the good manners he exhibits when he communes with others. What makes Sammy Mbgatta a great politician and a mayor with a difference is his versatile nature. He can put on many caps without mistaking any. This is to say that he can perform all his functions without allowing one to influence another. After being elected as mayor of Misaje, he accepted the confidence bestowed in him by the councilors and convincingly said he will make sure that all the contours development are respected and applied to the latter so that it becomes sustainable.  

Political scientists say a career politician begins his rise to power as a self-motivated, captivating, insightful and a visionary leader yet ends up to astound the world with the cleverness of his solutions to peoples’ problems. In many cases, such a politician always appears to be the savior of the masses. This is out of the ordinary because electoral politics is nearly always about voting for someone with whom one disagrees on some issues. It hardly takes a new configuration of political belief for people to vote for someone with whom they disagree on some policies but agree on others. Indeed, holding such different views is in no way a form of fetishistic denial but an acknowledgment and an acceptance of the fact that in the system we have we will have to hold views that are different to make good choices.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

How Dr. Fuh Calistus Worked for CPDM Victory in the Ako/Misaje Special Constituency

By Haruna Mohammadou

Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry presenting the candidates and Ballot paper

 In no point in time in olden times has an election swayed so much enthusiasm and scheming than the September 30, 2013 Municipal/Legislative elections in the Ako/Misaje Special Constituency even though history had it recorded that Dr. Fuh Calistus Gentry surmounted all to give CPDM victory. Ako/Misaje was the center of attraction with two political parties challenging the CPDM both in the parliamentary and municipal elections. 
Yet Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry who headed the CPDM campaign team to Ako/Misaje defied all the odds to retain the parliamentary seat for the CPDM and the Misaje Council. In the municipal elections in Misaje, the SDF managed not to lost deposit while NUDP lost its deposite both in the municipal and legislative. CPDM by crushing majority the Misaje counci and the votes from Misaje turned tables in Ako in favour of CPDM. From Ako to Misaje, Dr. Fuh Calistus campaign messages were pregnant with feasible actions. He used the opportunity to show how much the people of Ako/Misaje will gain by confirming their unflinching support to President Biya. He enumerated numerous projects that the people have benefitted in the past seven years ranging from good road infrastructures, creation of secondary schools, health centers etc. Everyone knows that the big take away of 2007 twin elections in the Ako/Misaje Special Constituency was that the CPDM outsmarted the SDF with the coming into the scene of Dr. Fuh Calistus Gentry in both races to win the lone Parliamentary seat and the two councils of Ako and Misaje but with the coming into play of lantern forces, especially the Kuta Factor, the CPDM had to lose the Ako Council to the CPDM. Yet in Misaje the CPDM scored crushing win with 4,350 votes as against 2,327 votes for the SDF and 281 votes for NUDP.
It should be recalled that Minister Fuh Calistus in his capacity as the leader of the CPDM to Donga Mantung also reconciled CPDM disgruntled militants in Nwa, Ndu and Ako after the publication of the selected candidates. If Nwa won, it is thanks to the fact that Minister Fuh Calitus reconciled the Nyanganji Job, Hon. Genesis Mbucksek and Dr. Ngomfe. He also reconcile Abdou Borno with the party given that his candidature was dropped for a female candidate.
How Kuta Factor Dashed CPDM Hopes in Ako Council
Greed is said to be the only virus that ends up destroying the carrier and itself. This statement is not only true to itself from the greediness demonstrated by the people of Kuta zone, but above all betrayed and destroyed the CPDM in Ako. In fact, those who understand the rule of life teaches us that any momentary triumph you think gained through argument is really a pyrrhic victory:  The resentment and ill will you stir up is stronger and lasts longer than any momentary change of opinion.  It is much more powerful to get others to agree with you through your actions, without saying a word.  Demonstrate, do not explicate. Yet Kuta wanted every elective position through argument. The tussle led to the population giving the CPDM a sanction vote. It should be noted that (Hon. JK Ntoi) the former Member of Parliament cum Section President of the CPDM hails from Kuta area, (Abe Michael) the Member of Parliament elect also comes from Kuta area, (Ngi Christopher), the Alternate Senator for Donga Mantung Division is from the same Kuta area and yet out of greed, the Kuta people also wanted the son of the Section President to be the mayor. According to what we gathered, this act of taking all and giving nothing to the others pushed the people of Lower Mbembe to rebel against the CPDM. The unexpected happened anyway. The truth is that when Dr. Fuh Calistus won the Parliamentary ticket in 2007 and was later appointed as cabinet minister, Hon. JK Ntoi stepped into his shoes given that he was his alternate. Matters started arising when Abe Michael was endorsed to step into Hon. Ntoi’s shoes while Ntoi Victor was eyeing the mayorship. Even with the overwhelming votes from Abafum at the polls, Akwaja and Berabe swallowed Kuta and the CPDM for SDF.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Wasum Augustine: The Mayor With a Vision for Balikumbat

By Fai Cassian Ndi

Wasum Augustine: Mayor of Balikumbat council

 On September 16, 2013, history repeated itself in Balikumbat council with the incumbent mayor, Wasum
 Harping on why he was elected for a second mandate, Wasum Augustine said that “ this is due to the projects realized within the first mandate”. He continued that in his acceptance speech, he told the population that his being elected is one thing and the collaboration the population will give him is another prerequisite that will make them succeed. “For those hurt me or thus whom I hurt ignorantly, I have forgiven them and I also ask for forgiveness if I did hurt any, so that together we join hands to develop the municipality” he pleaded.  When quizzed whether this mandate would be the last one, Wasum said he is not the one deciding. “It is the will of the people. First and foremost, I did not know I was to be elected but the people gave me the trust due to my achievements”. He appreciated the people of Balikumbat for voting the CPDM and concluded that though a politician he will work as a mayor for all without any political leniency. 

Augustine being catapulted as mayor. From all indications, Wasum Augustine has moved up the ladder to the hall of fame and has mastered the game of keeping himself at the top through the provision of basic needs. But what are his development challenges? The first thing people say of him is that Wasum Augustine has the maturity and experience needed to face the challenges of this important position. The second thing is that he inspires those around him to be the best they can be and, as mayor, he has the trusted to provide the strong leadership required for Balikumbat Council to make the best decisions on matters concerning its inhabitants. In a chat with this reporter, Wasum Augustine said the mayor is not an administrator but someone whose job is to look into the problems of his people and provide long lasting solutions. According to Wasum Augustine, the overriding importance of education, health facilities, roads and access to potable water in the municipality is primordial and need to be given special attention for development to be sustainable. An action which according to the mayor elect, he started with the support of PNDP and GP DERUDEP given that Balikumbat council already has strategic development plan for the municipality. Wasum Augustine acknowledges that “I was elected mayor in 2007 when it was important for me to be there and I am back again because it is important for me to be there for the betterment of the people”.  He however observed that for him to succeed in this task of transforming the municipality, he would need the collaboration of the population and the administration. “The people of this municipality renewed their trust in me by electing me to continue to champion the development of the council again. You need to know that I brought in development experts who came up with a blue-print of the entire council area and I have been working with these guide lines. This second mandate will permit me to continue where I last ended”.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Choh Isah Buba: Development Luminary Elected Mayor of Babessi

By Fai Cassian Ndi

Choh Isah Buba: Mayor of Babessi

The best thing that ever appened to Babessi council was the fact that Choh Isah Buba the pioneer mayor of this municipality was on September 16, 2013 elected as mayor. If we go by the popular saying that a good player never lacks a team, Choh Isah is therefore a good player who would never lack a team as the former SDF mayor bounces back as CPDM mayor.
Even though he left the SDF party because he was not happy with the policy, his endeavours at the helm of the Babessi coupled with his natural touch in politics have had reason over his detractors. He has been seen as the silent locomotive in the development and progress march of Babessi sub division. When he staged a spectacular come back in CPDM colours as mayor of Babessi council, the euphoria that saluted his election was so eventful that everybody is sure that he will continue where he ended in his strive to foster development. Being a great politician and a perfect one for that matter, his charming and beguiling strategies as far as development issues are concern have been the very epicenter of his political strives. Talking to this reporter barely a day after he was elected mayor of Babessi, Isah Buba said he is not coming into the council as a fortune-hunter given that he knows the problems of the people and he already has an agenda of priorities for the municipality. “ I know the problems of this municipality, it will not be a one man-show because I will work with all the councilors, the population and the administration to make sure that we get basic health facilities, construct classrooms for schools, provide the villages with potable water and above all, that more farms to market roads are constructed to reduce post-harvest waste”. He says if these priorities are achieve, the population will move from a state of gloom to productive and by it, the council will also witness an increase in revenue.
When asked what he left behind as the pioneer mayor of the Babessi council, he said “I constructed this council edifice from revenue collected locally and it is pathetic after several years nothing significant has been added to it”. It should be noted that the Babessi council chamber was constructed in the late 90s at the time FEICOM was not disbursing funds for the construction of council chambers yet Choh was able to raise money locally to provide the municipality with a nice looking structure. “I need to work in total collaboration with the staff of the council, my deputies, councilors and the local population as well as  the administration to succeed in this task. I know it is a great challenge to head the council but I am certain that we will succeed in giving a new orientation to development in this municipality”, he confirmed.
Harping on the legacy he would like to leave to the people of Babessi as he bounces back in a new political colour, Choh said that “I think what i will leave as a legacy will be the long term projects. For the first two years, i would like to meet uo with the social amenities of the people. The structure you see behind me, i constructed it and with the present day challenges, I think I will have to put up a more befitting strcuture for the council”. Choh said he was mayor from 1996 to 2002 but later resigned from the SDF to join the CPDM. When quizzed why he left the SDF for the CPDM, Choh Isah said he was not satisfy with the policy and that the development he was for could not come from the SDF. Yet sounds very optimistic with the policy of the CPDM. When asked by this reporter whether he falls in the rank of those who join the CPDM because they have things to hide, Choh Isah said he is not one of them and would never be one.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Meet The Newly Elected Mayors of North West Region

  Mezam Division
Santa: Kan Elroy Elected Mayor: The Santa mafia is what it is because during every election, a drama is always crated to portray how difficult it is for the CPDM to win elections there. In fact those who took the pains to witness the council executive elections in Santa council went home more confused than when they were going. The controversy that surrounded the election of deputy mayors had diverse interpretations. Kan Elroy was elected mayor unchallenged but when the moment to elect deputy mayors came, the SDO for Mezam said the composition of the council executive should reflect the political configuration of the council. Tempers flared as CPDM councilors were bent on taking all the four deputies. The plenary discussions were suspended for over two hours. After resumption, since both parties could not reach a compromise, the supervisory authority opted for elections. The CPDM had 31 votes while the SDF had 10 votes. Arithmetically, he declared that the CPDM has won the position of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd deputies while the position of 4th deputy goes to the SDF. When Mezam SDO Ngele Nguele declared the results, tempers flared again and he ordered for the suspension of the deliberations. Before suspending the deliberations, the SDO for Mezam said that “no one is above the law” and that if the CPDM feel cheated, they can take the matter to court.
On his part, the mayor elect Kan Elroy Moses said that it was pathetic that the senior Divisional officer did not inform them before the process. To him, the decision doesn’t only penalize Awing village, it puts the CPDM in a very difficult situation given that the people of Awing may give them a sanction vote. He said the decision is bias given that Piyin has the position of mayor and the position of 4th deputy mayor while Awing has nothing.
Before leaving Santa for Yaounde, CPDM Central Committee delegate Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry declared that his party’s lawyers were working on the issue. Harping on the decision by the SDO for Mezam, Minister Fuh Calistus was very diplomatic in his pronouncements adding that if the CPDM has been cheated, the party will make sure that the decision is reversed.
It should be recalled that the CPDM council list leader Kan Elroy was the popular choice for mayorship he stood unchallenged. Kan Elroy’s measuring rod is no other person than the former SDF mayor Wanki Clement Atanga whose output has attracted a lot of criticism from bookmakers. However, Kan Elroy will enter into record as the first CPDM mayor for Santa since 1990. Commonly known as the Man of God, his philanthropist gestures and orientations towards fostering development would materialize with his being there as mayor.

Caroline Bi Bongwa Catapulted Mayor of Bamenda I
She already has a record as the first ever female mayor in Mezam and would also be celebrated as one of the two CPDM female mayors of the North West Region. She was elected by 31 out of the 31 councilors that make up the deliberative organ of the Bamenda I council. For the first time, the destiny of the people of Bamendakwe lies in the hands of the CPDM and a woman for that matter. Even though the Bamenda City Council Government Delegate Vincent Ndumu Nji hails from Bamendakwe, which may make the Bamenda II council a chouchou to the Bamenda City council, Minister Atanga Nji contribution to the success of the CPDM are not doubted. His triumphant entry to Bamenda I on horse back to celebrate a victory clearly indicates the truism in the political act that gave CPDM the victory.  However, Atembang Paul who many saw as the best man of the hour humbled himself to gain the prestigious position of kingmaker. With Caroline Bi Bongwa dusk has settled on the controversy surrounding the selection of mayor and the clannish tendencies that had reached it peak in Bamenda I council area. As Caroline Bi Bongwa puts it, she would work for the interest of the population in order to leave a mark of greatness for the CPDM to show.

Bamenda II: Balick Awah Fidelis Trusted
Balick Awah Fidelis is the incumbent mayor and was once again trusted the crown of mayor of Bamenda II. Balick Wah stood unchallenged as he succeeded self at the helm of the Bamenda II council. Even though pundits were speculating as to whether Benjamin Fru Ndi would challenge him, it came to past that the argumentative mayor staged a comeback without any difficulties. The movement for the restoration of Mankon nationhood must have been shocked given that Balick enjoys the blessings of Ni John Fru Ndi and the Paramount Fon of Mankon though CPDM given his trappings as mayor. He got 27votes out of 31(3 null and 1 against) to slam a crushing win to meet the same worries such as the distribution of revenue from markets around Bamenda, management of parks etc.

Bamenda III: Fonguh Cletus Gets Own Mandate
Fonguh Cletus succeeded late Prince Amandou Pius as mayor of Bamenda III after the later kicked the bucket. Pundits predicted that  Fonguh’s chances of becoming mayor were on the balance following his managerial savvy. Yet it came to past that he finally picked the crown of mayorship given that he enjoys the blessing of the Fon of Nkwen and that of the investiture given his achievements. Expectations are high as to whether his orientation will revolutionize to measure late Prince Amandou’s level.

Bafut: Langsi Abel Breaks Myth
Langsi Abel is the sitting mayor and he recently demystified the notion that “no one has ever succeeded himself as mayor of Bafut”. Before September 16, 2013 public opinion in Bafut placed him high. And on polling day, just picked got the needed support to succeed self at the helm of Bafut council. Langsi Abel remains a masterpiece when it comes to transparent management. Except otherwise Langsi’s only obstacle will be the long standing notion that no mayor succeeds self in Bafut.

Tubah: Tanjong Martin Tussles out Sofa
Sofa Stanislaus is now history in Tubah council. The unexpected happened when SDF District chairman Tanjong Martin challenged the investiture’s decision to contest in the council executive elections. Surprisingly, he booted out the incumbent mayor Sofa Stanislaus by 24 votes to 9. As District chairman Tanjong Martin falls in the ranks of Mangoh Jones, Tikanjo Stephen, DK Nfor and Chiato who in 2007 challenged the decision of the SDF investiture. Even though the population of Bambui people stormed the council premises arguing that they cannot accept to be lorded over by someone who did not win elections in his own area, the SDO for Mezam on his part said any protest be done within the ambit of the law. However, popular opinion in Bambui holds that since Tanjong lost elections in Bambili, his fate for the mayoral site is on the balance. Notwithstanding, another school of thought holds that it is his erudite campaigns in the whole of Tubah that led to SDF victory, as such, his sins can be forgiven. Tanjong’s act of challenging the decision of the investiture has been interpreted as a simple act of faith that has ended up with a handsome return.  Affair a suivre.

Bali: Ajong Augustine Enters into Nwayalla’s Shoes
He is the new mayor of Bali council. He is the section President and was voted unchallenged even though others who had earlier manifested their interest ended up devastated given that party hierarchy could not favour them. With Raymond Nwayalla now history, the new man to pilot the affairs of the Bali council is Ajong Augustine.

Bui Division
Kumbo: Njong Donatus Earns Fourth Mandate
It once seemed like Njong Donatus Fonyuy wouldn’t be mayor for life but earlier last week, councilors of the Kumbo council gave him another mandate. It wasn’t a surprise that he was again voted mayor of Kumbo for another term. Njong Donatus Fonyuy, the no-nonsense mayor of Kumbo council has again won but this time he was challenged even though many thought his bid could not be challenged even by the flies. It came to past that Njong’s challenger had 8 votes. He has been there for close to 17 years and he is being celebrated for his numerous achievements. After all, Njong remains the most talk-about mayor in the North West Region.

Nkor: Wache Francis Wins Big
 With Shey Kume the CPDM incumbent mayor being booted out alongside the CPDM in Noni sub division by the SDF, Fonyuy Francis Wache was elected mayor of Nkor council. Wache’s experiences as a perfect journalist coupled with his know-how at CEFAM are an asset for the municipality. Francis Wache was voted in a highly contested election. With Francis Wache heading the Nkor council pundits say the CPDM may likely sink into the doldrums in PM Yang’s constituency.

Elak-Oku: Ngum Jerome Creates the Unexpected
He is a force to reckon with given his aptitude in handling administrative, developmental and financial matters. It is also his development prowess that pushed the councilors of Oku to place their trust in him by giving him a second mandate. The mayor in office in Elak-Oku council, Ngum Jerome has set the pace through his achievements. Allegedly three contenders were waxing to face Ngum Jerome in the race including his second deputy mayor yet the councilors demonstrated their loyalty in him to vote out the newcomer. In Oku, the CPDM machinery was hooked when they wanted to impose and impostor as mayor. Allegedly, majority of the councilors threatened to walk over to the SDF if their choice will not be accepted.

Jakiri: Jaff Romanus Makes Spectacular Comeback
With the America wander talkative CPDM mayor of Jakiri Shang Lawrence haven been vomited out in Jakiri, Jaff Romanus, the one time dynamic SDF mayor is the name on every lip. Jaff Romanus commonly known as “Roman” by the populace was voted by acclamation on Thursday September 17, amidst joy and fanfare. This workaholic former mayor who is a professional pig farmer, a development oriented giant and man-of-the people took over the council keys from the man he handed the same keys in 2007. Jaff Romanus’s spectacular comeback into Jakiri council attracted hundreds to be witness the beginning of a new way for the people of Jakiri. It was the dynamic Nsekie Theophile, SDO for Bui who thrilled the over 1000 man-crowd with African proverbs before prescribing peace and development to the mayor elect.

Nkum: Suila Aruna Kidze Stages Own Jumpstart
Formerly, Suila Aruna Kidze was one of the deputy mayors in Nkum council. He created the unexpected when he was voted to enter into the shoes of his former boss. He has been turning round the corridors of power for the past 17 years, patient dog-like, he has at last been handed the fattest borne. Expectations are high that his experience in the council will be an asset as he takes over the management of the council. The most interesting thing about Aruna is that he is soft-spoken but very intelligent when it comes to introducing new orientations. But since development is not an item that has been hanged, Aruna will have to demonstrate his worth as a graduate. Even though his candidature for mayor was challenged, Suila Aruna won brilliantly.

Mbiame: Fonyuy Fidelis Dictates Own Law
He is the incumbent mayor and was again given the unflinching support to head the Mbiame council for a second mandate. He created the unexpected when first rejected his nomination by arguing that some councilors lately accused him of being an absentee landlord. On bended knees, the councilors begged him and he used the opportunity to impose his own deputies. The councilors accepted his choice of deputies and his team was voted by acclamation. One thing is clear that Fonyuy Fidelis will continue to administer the Mbiame council by proxy but the difference will be that he has competent deputies, thus prospects of succeed are high.

Momo Division
Andek: Awetua Samuel to Surface as Mayor
With the absence of the incumbent CPDM Aghogo Johnny not featuring on the list of councilors, Awutia Samuel has surfaced as the mayor of Andek.  Even though many say he is a newcomer, popular opinion says he is a system’s man and has the capacity to instill development efforts in Andek. Considering the controversy that surrounded the Andek council, Awutia Samuel is expected to instill hope and fosterdevelopment efforts to gain more popularity in that municipality.

Mbengwi: Mbamuku  Nduku Beatrice Gets Ama’s Pass Note
She is a woman of substance they say reasons why she was on September 16 catapulted enter history books as the first female mayor in Momo Division. Even though many thought Sanji Joseph was also a viable candidate for the job, Mbamuku Nduku Beatrice caught the admiration of councilors given the talent she embodies. As such, allegedly, she enjoyed the Ama Muna support which is an asset for her to go places as mayor.

Tanjuh Frederick Emerges Strongest
Tanjuh Frederick is not a man to pigeon-hole with given that he proved his worth when Tenoh Lawrence was wrapped in the communal stamp saga. Even though Frederick challenged councilor Weriwum who was invested by the party, Tanjuh Fred got the support of majority of the councilors to be voted mayor. More so, he has the backing of the population given that he was very worthy when Tenoh was napped in the communal stamp scandal. Tanjuh Fred has been the first deputy mayor for Batibo and has demonstrated his strength and leadership qualities. He enjoys the support from the youth and is likely going to be a good mayor given that he had proven his worth when the mayor was napped in the stamp saga.


Ngoketunjia Division
Babessi: Chah Isah Buba Bounces Back in CPDM Colours
 He was the pioneer SDF mayor Babessi council and since a good player never lacks a team, he resurfaced as the head of the CPDM council list for Babessi. Given his achievements as the first mayor of this municipality, he was on September 16, 2013 voted to head the Babessi council for the second time. Popular opinion in Babessi holds that he is the right man in the right place given his trappings as mayor. He left an indelible mark of greatness when he constructed the council chamber with funds collected locally. It is for this reason that he was again elected to head the council. (see separate story)

Ndop: Mbombo Abel Moves to the Top
Mbombo Abel is the mayor elect of Ndop council. He was voted mayor of Ndop on September 16, 2013 in the presence of the SDO for Ngoketunjia. Formerly, 2nd deputy mayor, he caught public admiration he managed the council when Ntoh Daniel was wrapped in the communal stamp saga.  He is a chartered accountant and had won admiration from the populace when the mayor Ntoh Daniel was caught up in the stamp scandal.

Balikumbat: Wasum Augustine Unbending Pillar
He is the incumbent CPDM mayor. Seemingly Awasum had no serious challenger and was 85% sure to succeed self as mayor of Balikumbat for a second mandate. Wasum Augustine emerged victorious again to be the frontliner to oversee development efforts in Balikumbat. This educationist enjoys the support of a greater number of councilors given that he has a soft-spot for development and has been doing it. He is the man of the moment in Balikumbat.

Menchum:
Wum: Dinghabong Anthony Enters Njukwe Charles Shoes
He is the YCPDM Section President and head of the council list. He is a sure bet for mayoral position given that the incumbent Njukwe Charles was kicked off from the list. The Aghem man and woman is of the opinion that Dinghabong Julius is the best for now in Menchum.

Zhoa:Tem Peter to Succeed Ateh Jonas
Tem Peter is a business man and a man of the people given his involvement in Credit Union activities. He is a force to reckon with when it comes to developmental issues and he is the mayor elect for Zhoa council. Even though he had four contenders, the reason that majority of them are non-residence in Fungom gave him an upper hand. However, Akein Donatus alias Menchum, is another futurist who will work hand in hand with the mayor elect.

Benakuma: Nnum Ihimbru Elias
Nnum Elias Ihimbru is the new mayor of Benakuma and allegedly he is a lecturer at the Bamenda University. Even though many are said to raised their noses for the mayoral position, Nnum Elias was chosen as the man for the job.



Boyo Division
Belo: Tosam Beranard Maintains Statuesque
His reelection was not a surprise given that Tosam Bernard has a bulk of experience in council issues given his long stay as SDF mayor for Belo. He succeeded self at the helm of Belo Council. He was again confirmed as the landlord to complete the numerous development programmes he started. To win, Tosam allegedly took councilors on a site seeing trip to Ndawara to cash votes.

Njinikom: Chah Terrence Springs Surprises
He is popular and well known in his municipality.  He was voted on September 16 to enter into the shoes Chiato who could not feature on the council list. Chah Terrence may not be known in far off places but in Njinikom, he is being likened to Farfre in Mayor of Casterbridge given that he has development thoroughness that is rare in many politicians. Given his leadership qualities and his workaholic nature, he was preferred by the investiture of the SDF party. With the incumbent already out of the race, Terrence is the best the councilors could have trusted to handle development issues for the municipality.

Fundong: Ndang Denis the Fore Runner
He is a diehard CPDM militant and has been very consistent in molding the CPDM party in Fundong. Even though allegations abound that Fundong may witness a re-run, for the time being Ndang Denis is the man in-charge of fostering all efforts in the municipality as mayor. His leadership qualities can never be pigeon-hole with. He is a surely going to make the difference.

Fonfuka: Gwei Philip on Wanlo’s Seat
He was formerly the 1st Deputy Mayor to Senator Wanlo John when he was mayor of Fonfuka. Gwei Philip is a man who has already proven his worth in council management. He has been handed the baton to ensure the development of the people of Bum sub division.

Donga Mantung:
Nwa: At Last Dr. Ngomfe Loma David Validates Own Mandate
Dr. Ngomfe Loma David  was the incumbent CPDM mayor and hails from Mfumte area. He was voted unchallenged as the mayor of Nwa council. His trappings as mayors have been laudable yet face a lot of challenges from within for uncorrected lots. At last Dr. Ngomfe Loma David was trusted and handed a full term mandate given that he took over the mayorship of Nwa after the demise of Yakabong Paul.  Pundits had feared that what transpired in July 2007 in Nwa may repeat self in Nwa yet it came to past that councilors of Nwa council reaffirmed their trust in the incumbent mayor.

Misaje-Mbgata Sammy Replaces Nkenda Simon
Sammy Mbgatta Nforkemba is the CPDM section President and he is the mayor elect of Misaje council. He replaces Nkenda Simon as the mayor of Misaje. This former Municipal Treasurer for Belo and Nkambe councils hails from Bebekette. Even though the Mbessa conclave gave Nkenda the much needed support, the councilors of Misaje council backed Sammy Mbgatta who also benefitted from the largess of the Central Committee of the CPDM. Sammy equally during this period enjoys the support of Minister Fuh Calistus and other local party officials. He is a community mobilizer and has God given charm that makes a good leader. Given his experience in council management systems, Sammy is expected to move mountains in fostering development efforts in that municipality.

Nkambe-Ngabir Paul Bantar Enters Mangoh’s Shoes
With the SDF haven been bundled out obnoxiously, elections of the next mayor of Nkambe council was highly expected to produce the person with capabilities who will enter into Mangoh’s shoes. He is the Section President and hails from Nkambe village. His being there as Section President is not by luck or error but by merit. However, it is Ngabir Paul planted the CPDM in Nkambe given his thoroughness he exercised.  Ngabir Paul will certainly make a good mayor given that he is jam-packed with experiences in project writing and his legacies at the helm of CamCCUL and BAPCCUL speaks volume. Ngabir Paul is one of those who have sacrificed a lot for the party to grow. Even though four others had shown interest in the mayoral position, Ngabir Paul Bantar emerged as the favourite for the position.

Ako: Akio Augustine Springs Back
Having beaten the CPDM, the SDF will run the Ako council for the next five years except otherwise. However, in Ako seemingly three contenders have expressed their intentions for the position of mayor. Akio Augustine Abe is former mayor and hails from extreme lower Mbembe. Implicitly, he was voted unchallenged as the new mayor of Ako council given that enjoys the support of other SDF elite politicians of Donga Mantung Division. He is credited for purchasing a council hilux, a truck and constructed the Ako grandstand which for six the CPDM run council helped to destroy in just six years.

Ndu: Bunyui Emmanuel for the Blues
Eight contenders are said to have submitted applications for the mayoral position in Ndu council. However, David Karngong Nfor the incumbent was not favoured even though no doubts have been casted whether he performed well or not but surely was barred due to his age which many think he has to retire. His trappings at the helm of Ndu council have attracted a lot of admirations that earned him numerous awards.
However, Bunyui Emmanuel was voted mayor while Martin Fon Yembe was voted 1st deputy mayor. Indicators abound that the mayor is working in close collaborations with his deputies. The mayoral position of Ndu seemingly paddles within one cycle given that DK Nfor took over the Ndu council from Late Pa Bunyui Jonathan. Coincidently, DK Nfor is married to the junior sister of late Pa Bunyui. It should be noted that the new mayor of Ndu is the son of the late Bunyui Jonathan (the late workaholic mayor of Ndu). Besides, he is also a retired educationist whose community endeavours could easily be diagnosed through the Wowo Community College and how he interacts with others.


When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Two Arrested for Anti-Biya Protest at The Vatican

Astia Bakary

Police investigators in the Vatican are aid arrested two members of an  association based in the Diasporas known as CODE. According to what we gathered Emmanuel Kamta and one other person were arrested by Vatican police for staging anti-Biya protest in the Vatican last week. Sources say the two members of CODE sneaked into the Holy land and positioned themselves where the Presidential convoy would pass. And when Pope Francis and his visitor drove pass, the two members of CODE holding placards jumped in to express their grievances. Beside the famous “Open Letters” sent to the Pope Francis to denounce President Paul Biyas visit to the Holy City, CODE we gathered dispatched discreetly up two of its most formidable activists for a “punch” operation, which is their trademark. October 17, 2013, Emmanuel Kemta, Chief Operations CODE, left London to join another activist in the Italian capitalfor a reconnaissance mission. The two activists took up position where the presidential motorcade would pass. When Kemta and his colleague surfaced from the crowd with placards it generated into a forceful intervention by Police of the Vatican, which is not used to this kind of action. The two activists were immediately ferried away in a police car and camera confiscated. Escorted by two police cars, they were taken to the station Polizia di Stato A Vaticano, which is the Vatican police station located in the heart of the Holy City. Informed of the arrest, the two leaders of CODE, notably Brice Nitcheu (London) and Moses Essoh (Brussels) said they would deploy all necessary means to secure their release immediately and condemned the attitude of the Italian police protect culprits and victimize victims. It should be recalled that some Catholic Christians of the Diaspora and CODE had separately written open letters” to Pope Francis in which they denounced the Biya regime of corruption, misery, etc. Two groups also called on the Pope to advise President Biya to renounce power for he has been there for long.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Jaff Romanus Makes Spectacular Comeback as Mayor of Jakiri

Left to Right: Incoming mayor Jaff, the SDO for Bui, Out-gone Mayor Shang

 The Jakiri town hall was the avenue of the historic election exercise of September 17, which catapulted Jaff Romanus to helm of the Jakiri Council. The former SDF mayor for Jakiri was voted by acclamation given that he stood unchallenged. The election exercise registered the presence of over 1000 people who showed up to witness the Senior Divisional Officer for Bui, Nsekie Theophile perform the rite. There was commotion when Jaff Romanus was declared as the mayor elected for Jakiri. Singing and dancing took the centre stage.
In his acceptance speech, elated Jaff Romanus said he would spare no effort to make sure that the Jakiri council will get to every household, quarter and village. He said top on his agenda will be the creation of farms to market roads to disenclave production basins. Before proceeding to symbolic handing over, the SDO for Bui prescribed peace and development to the newly elected council executive. On his part Shang Lawrence, the outgoing mayor of Jakiri said he was happy to have contributed his own part and that he is also delighted that he is handing over to the person who in 2007 also handed the council to him. Before leaving Kumbo, the SDO for Bui said the election of mayors took place in Bui in a serene and calm atmosphere. He praised the people of Bui for their maturity in politics calling on the newly elected council officials to put the interest of the communities ahead of their personal interest because they will be judged following their trappings as mayors.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

The State Treasury to Disburse FCFA 8.42 Billion Annually as Allowances to Traditional Rulers

By Cassimania

 This is the result of a presidential decree allocating monthly allowances to traditional leaders. Cameroon will now include in its operating budget, an annual expenditure of more than 8.42 billion CFA francs to pay traditional. It should be recalled that on September 13, 2013 President Biya signed a decree allocating monthly allowances to traditional rulers. This fee will be paid to both the 1st class, 2nd class and 3rd class traditional rulers. The amounts allocated were respectively 200 000 FCFA, 100,000 FCFA and 50,000 CFA francs.  According to a source at the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization (Minadt), Cameroon has about 81 First Class traditional rulers. An estimated 194.4 million FCFA will be disbursed per year as allowances to this group. As for those of the second class traditional rulers, they are more than 860 and the state will be spending close to1, 032 billion FCFA per year. The biggest budgetary burden will be attributed to the third class traditional rulers who are said to be more than 12 000 and will therefore cost more than 7.2 billion CFA francs per year to the state.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Stalemate in Oku, Batibo, Tubah, Bda I & Kumba II as Councilors Challenge Investitures

 The councilors of Oku are said to have threatened to decamp to the SDF as Central Committee wanted to impose a mayor on them. Accordingly, 27 councilors stormed out of the meeting leaving the Central Committee with no objection than to accept. Allegedly, some CPDM elite(s) cooked up lists in Yaounde and handed them to party representatives. The same scenario took place in Bamenda I, where the Central Committee delegate Ama Tutu Muna crumbled to the dictates of the Mendakwe people.
In SDF, the famous investiture committee was also challenged in Tubah, Kumba and Batibo. In Tubah Council, Tanjong Martin challenged the decision of the investiture to crush Sofa Stanislaus in the elections. Even though Fru Ndi is said to have declared that he will make sure that the decision of the party is respected, Tanjong Martin hereto remains the mayor. In Kumba, another 99% sense took the almighty Asanpgu unaware and gave him a bashing defeat. The SDF is with its back on the wall given that councilors preferred Martin Forcha to Asanpgu. The SDF is seemingly having it very hot with Martins this year. In Batibo, councilor Weriwum was challenged and he lost elections to Tanjuh Feredrick. In Kumbo, Njong Donatus was also challenged but he won while in Noni, former mayor Nfi Omer and one other person challenged Wache Francis but the two contenders got only 8 votes. Wache finally won. In Nkum, even though Suila Aruna was invested, his candidature was challenged but he finally won.

The Making of a Mayor

Candidates who had submitted applications for mayorship are nominated by any councilor, according to legal provisions. This process is some-how a mockery of democracy given that in reality those to be nominated are designated by their political parties. In council areas where the council seats are shared, the general rule is that the candidate from the party with the most seats is certain to win. This is so because sharing seats after the municipal elections, the party is sure to have more than half of the councilors. The case of Santa, Mbengwi and Fundong abound yet only the SDO for Mezam was strict to see that the law is respected. However, it is not excluded that a councilor from a candidate with fewer seats could try his/her luck given that such an election is often characterized by buying of votes. Yet it is not ruled out that a party can endorse two or more candidates for the position of mayor and in such a case, it is money that speaks.
The most interesting thing about who could be elected mayor is that there is no legal provision which states that the head of the council list is the lone candidate for mayor and therefore the future mayor. Under the law, the number of deputy mayors is set according to the size of the population of the municipality given that in some council the number of councilors varies between 25 and 61. The election of the mayor and deputies is done following a list system. In practice, a councilor presents a list he/she leads. If it wins the election, its members shall be declared elected in order, as first, second, third ... until the sixth deputy mayor depending on the size of the council. Generally, it is the dominant party that takes all. This, despite the fact that Article 60 paragraph 1 of the 2004 Act (law) provides that the municipal executive reflects as far as possible, the composition of the council. It is for this reason that the SDO for Mezam declared the position of 4th deputy mayor for the SDF to the chagrins of Achidi Achu, JB Ndeh and Kan Elroy Moses who could swallow it. In many cases, this is usually violated. However this law was never respected in Fundong and Mbengwi which raises another serious litigation.
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Electoral Litigations
In case of any electoral litigation, the Electoral Code provides that a councilor declared elected by the Council Supervisory authority remains in office until the intervention of a decision by the Supreme Court. This same principle is applied to council executives who are elected and would have to remain in office until a contrary decision may arise, for example as a result of post election disputes. Implicitly, within 45 days of the close of the polls for municipal elections, in other words, by November 4, 2013, we’ll know if the configuration of municipal councils per the results of September 30, 2013 and the composition of the municipal executive expected on 15 September will be final and effective for the next five years or not. As mentioned above, in a situation where the results of the polls are cancelled or results of some polling stations cancelled and the party in power looses, the mayor and his deputies will remain in office for at least six months before fresh elections are organized. Such a scenario may likely take place in the North West Region in Santa, Nkambe, Bamenda I and or Fundong where electoral litigations are pending the decision of the Supreme Court.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

SDF To Take Back B’da I, Nkambe, Santa, Fundong, Councils As 7 ELECAM Board Storm in NW

FC Junior

As new mayors have been  elected, seven Board members are reported in the North West Region to investigate into the electoral malpractices that were recorded in Santa, Nkambe, Fundong and Bamenda I council areas. According classified sources the team of ELECAM board members headed by Dorothy Njeuma has been probing into some electoral malpractices. North West ELECAM officials especially the council heads are on heat as some of them are being interrogated. The seven ELECAM Board members, we gathered stormed the Bamenda I council and they are also expected to move to Santa, Fundong and Nkambe for similar investigations. Heads, we gathered will roll before the court may order a re-run or total cancellation of election results in Santa, Nkambe, Fundong and Bamenda I councils.
In the Bamenda I council sources hinted that the team is investigating into allegations that the electoral register was falsified at the level of ELECAM. Allegedly some fake 5000 cards were printed and infiltrated into the electoral register.
It is also alleged that for the CPDM to win the Santa Council, the counting commission rejected votes from an area known as Abang where the SDF won by a large majority without any tangible reasons.  Given that the SDF had submitted a petition to the Supreme Court, a well placed official hinted that the case of Santa is one of the serious cases from the North West Region but could not confirm whether the court will order for a re-run in Santa.
In Nkambe, The Eye is aware that the total numbers of registered voters in Nkambe were conflicting in both the municipal and legislative elections. Hon. Awudu Mbaya is quoted to have challenged ELECAM officials to explain to the public as to whether during the recompilation process there was a register for municipal elections and another for legislative. The difference in the total number of registered voters in the municipal result sheet and the legislative result sheet clearly indicates that the electoral register was manipulated upon; Awudu is also quoted to have revealed. All eyes in Nkambe are turned towards the Supreme Court’s decision. Rumours abound that over fake 5000 voters’ cards emerged in Nkambe and that in some polling stations that total number of votes cast were out-numbered.
Hon. Mbah Ndam, told journalists recently that the case of Fundong is also another pathetic one. According to Hon. Mbah Ndam, figures were doctored to give CPDM victory. It is alleged that one polling station gave the CPDM victory in Fundong and this was done by adding the figure (1) on the 136 that voted to finally raise the number to 1136 giving the CPDM victory.
In the Bamenda I council, the SDF is said to have complained that adding voters cards were produced and infiltrated into the electoral registered.
Classified sources at the Supreme Court hinted that field report from ELECAM will help the court to have a clear picture of the petitions from Nkambe, Bamenda I, Fundong and Santa Councils of the North West Region. According to the hint, the Supreme Court may order for a re-run in some of these council areas.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

ELECAM is White Elephant, Cameroon Constitution Needs Urgent Review to Enshrine Separation of Powers et al.

   By Felix Teche Nyamusa, 2018 presidential hopeful

 No serious nation practising multiparty politics accepts going into general elections controlled by but one of the parties nor will she tolerate governance without separation of powers as obtained in Cameroon today.

The majority-CPDM-personnel ELECAM which passes as elections managing body in Cameroon has most of her decisions vetted by the Supreme Court – thus thwarting the acclaimed independence. Her financing is decided by the Presidency (Executive) not by a vote in the legislature outfit (- though rubber- stamped in Cameroon).  This gives answer to where her allegiance is specified – to Biya/CPDM. Cameroon where the difference between the ruling party and government is not clear – hence rampant money laundry of state coffers by both officials of the duo with impunity while the rest of the country including opposition parties and the civil society hold their breath.

The personnel of ELECAM - this local elections monitoring body in Cameroon, more than foreign elections monitors would have understood the injustice of our system. How can they when particularly the top brass hardly see beyond their nostrils? They seem, do not care for the youths, generations to come and ordinary Cameroonians so long as they are comfortable. ELECAM is aware that the set up they are managing elections for (Cameroon) is not democratic – there is no separation of powers. Many a super-skilled Cameroonian has rejected attractive offers to work under the CPDM regime on principles. Elections are meant to satisfy the generality of citizens to enable people’s candidates, parties, choices to control their affairs for progress and development but home based principal monitors (ELECAM) gives a blind eye to this sterling universal quality as she works covertly in the selfish interest of only one arm of government – the executive which of recent times drove the country into corruption, poverty and debts (HIPC).

          ELECAM (as well as even just a social toddler here) obviously is aware, but feigns angelic impartiality and innocence that her financing which constitutes one of the major indicator of any structure’s independence is decided not even by the appointed-members legislature but by President Biya who doubles as national President of the ruling CPDM. ELECAM’s controversial double pronged leadership and most of their subordinates is aware (like many a citizen do) that the regime deeps its hands into the public treasury for campaign money for the ruling party to the detriment of adversary parties yet she (ELECAM) claims to organize free and transparent elections. For one party to have huge sums of campaign money from the general treasury while the other contestants are starved is treason and will always permit this ruling party to remain in power to the detriment of the country in general. Government here intimidates state armed forces and civil servants into errors of fighting and voting for CPDM - ELECAM knows this and continues mindlessly in self deceit of managing independent of party influence elections in Cameroon!

          The circa 80 percent routine results awarded to CPDM is characteristic of dictators’ mentality and desire. This pro government ELECAM project is thus a white elephant and can not be an appropriate tool for a Cameroon aiming at emergence from poverty.

          Cameroon laws are tailored to maintain the stranglehold of the incumbent executive and ruling party in power. Governance with no separation of powers, the practice here, is no democracy to say the least.

          A country like Cameroon where one man of the executive arm usurps all functions can never progress – their most eminent evolution is scoring close to 100 percent at fraudulent elections – In a normal country, parliament and/ or senate (legislature) questions and checks the president. The courts can prosecute any other arm. The three branches of government are autonomous and control the action of each other not today’s Cameroon where Biya is every where, and perpetually. His party must always win all elections – one party rules for donkey’s years – yet Cameroonians have their dreams but for emigration into the Diaspora for greener pastures – many die in this process and those that get abroad, many, still suffer  serious race discrimination and underpay while broken relations, marriages haunt them back home. Cameroon’s is a rudimentary economy with highly insufficient basic farm-to-market roads, clean water and electric energy supply.

          We must dump this sterile governance cum shoddy electioneering with its ancient fault-packed constitution without delay!

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Scramble for Mayorship: · 10.626 Contenders for 360 Top Jobs in Councils Nationwide

By Cassimania Faison
 After being elected on September 30, 2013, a total number of 10, 626 councilors nationwide will by October 16, 2013 play to another political gallery of electing mayors and deputies to pilot the affairs in 360 municipalities nationwide. If not of the fact that mayors are selected (handpicked) by the various political parties, the 10.626 councilors per the law are potential mayors. However, it is alleged that the investiture of the various political parties that emerged victorious have been busy examining applications and handpicking mayors. Meanwhile, it is alleged that some candidates gunning for mayoral positions have been spending their time with marabouts. Those trying to unseat the incumbents as well as those in office have been spotted in parties’ headquarters trying to corrupt party officials. Many of those who worked together for the party to emerge victorious we gathered are no more in talking terms. This is so because everyone is suspicious of everybody. In some municipalities, money is said to be changing hands as potential candidates paying off others to get their votes.
Following the proclamation of the results of the municipal elections, as required by the electoral law of July 22, 2004 laying down common rules for councils, elected councilors shall sit in an ordinary session which marks the beginning of their mandate. During this session, councilors shall elect mayors and their deputies (in actual fact they will validate the selection made by the hierarchy of the party). Classified sources say aspiring mayors have cued up at the CPDM Secretariat in Yaounde as well as the residence of Ni John Fru Ndi’s Ntarinkon residence with concoctions in their pockets to influence their aspirations. More so, influence peddlers have also gotten another great opportunity to make money. However mayors who will buy their way up are going to become friends to richer people and then the crying poor mass is left to continue in neediness.  While those who will be chosen thanks to the so-called godfathers will continue to be the “untouchables” whereas the population who voted the said list is yearning for redemption and sanctification. As usual, majority of them will end up in prison.
Procedure
Concretely, it is the Senior Divisional Officer-SDO who convenes all councilors. At the opening of the session, the SDO or any other representative of the State will check whether a quorum has been formed. Then he/she will form an interim board consisting of the oldest and the youngest councilor. This is the team that will conduct the proceedings until the mayor and his deputies are chosen (elected).
Elections
Candidates who had submitted applications for mayorship are nominated by any councilor, according to legal provisions. This process is some-how a mockery of democracy given that in reality those to be nominated are designated by their political parties. In council areas where the council seats are shared, the general rule is that the candidate from the party with the most seats is certain to win. This is so because sharing seats after the municipal elections, the party is sure to have more than half of the councilors. The case of Santa, Mbengwi and Fundong abound. However, it is not excluded that a councilor from a candidate with fewer seats could try his/her luck given that such an election is often characterized by buying of votes. Yet it is not ruled out that a party can endorse two or more candidates for the position of mayor and in such a case, it is money that speaks.
The most interesting thing about who could be elected mayor is that there is no legal provision which states that the head of the council list is the lone candidate for mayor and therefore the future mayor. Under the law, the number of deputy mayors is set according to the size of the population of the municipality given that in some council the number of councilors varies between 25 and 61. The election of the mayor and deputies is done following a list system. In practice, a councilor presents a list he/she leads. If it wins the election, its members shall be declared elected in order, as first, second, third ... until the sixth deputy mayor depending on the size of the council. Generally, it is the dominant party that takes all. This, despite the fact that Article 60 paragraph 1 of the 2004 Act (law) provides that the municipal executive reflects as far as possible, the composition of the council. In many cases, this is usually violated. However this law is never respected because the majority takes all.
Electoral Litigations
In case of any electoral litigation, the Electoral Code provides that a councilor declared elected by the Council Supervisory authority remains in office until the intervention of a decision by the Supreme Court. This same principle is applied to council executives who are elected and would have to remain in office until a contrary decision may arise, for example as a result of post election disputes. Implicitly, within 45 days of the close of the polls for municipal elections, in other words, by November 4, 2013, we’ll know if the configuration of municipal councils per the results of September 30, 2013 and the composition of the municipal executive expected on 15 September will be final and effective for the next five years or not. As mentioned above, in a situation where the results of the polls are cancelled or results of some polling stations cancelled and the party in power looses, the mayor and his deputies will remain in office for at least six months before fresh elections are organized. Such a scenario may likely take place in the North West Region in Nkambe, Bamenda I and or Fundong where electoral litigations are pending the decision of the Supreme Court.
The Dictates of Political Parties
The most senior officials of the Central Committee of the ruling CPDM party allegedly advised it councilors who won in the municipal elections to wait for the decision from the Central Committee. According to what we gathered, the CPDM will decide on who will be elected mayor. In any case, this method has already been somewhat been made public by the Secretary General of the CPDM Central Committee who announced that committees composed of CPDM Section Presidents, and Central Committee delegates will make up the committee that will select candidatures at local levels while the Central Committee will give a final verdict.
In SDF, the famous investiture committee has been receiving applications from postulants. The SDF investiture will surely learn from errors of the past that has contributed to the party loosing the Nkambe, Bafoussam I and Babessi Council after the decisions of the investitures were challenged. However, the party cadres they remain faithful to the tradition. Other parties like the NUDP, CDU have also adopted this method of selection that comes from the top of the party.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Election of Mayors: Who is Who in Donga Mantung Division

 Nwa Council-Tussle on Top
Dr. Ngomfe Loma David: He is the incumbent CPDM mayor and hails from Mfumte area. His trappings as mayors have been applauded yet face a lot of challenges from within for uncorrected lots. He is likely to have a stiff challenger. From all indications, Dr. Ngomfe may have more than one challenger for the post of mayor. Pundits are of the opinion that what transpired in July 2007 may repeat self in Nwa.

Menyong Lawrence Ngasah: He is first deputy mayor and a teacher by profession. His ambitions of taking over the top job in the municipality may be ripe this year if he submits candidature. He has a wider experience given that he is currently the 1st Deputy Mayor and could easily steps into Ngomfe’s shoes if preferred by the CPDM investiture.

Misaje-The Unexpected

Nkenda Simon Sunde: He is the CPDM incumbent and would likely face a stiff competition from two contenders. Nkenda may be handicapped by the famous gentleman agreement which stipulates that Dumbu area may produce the next mayor. However the Mbessa conclave is giving Nkenda the much needed support.

Sammy Mbgatta Nforkembah: He is the Section President and many see him enjoying the support of Minister Fuh Calistus and other local party officials. He hails from Bebekette in the Dumbu area. This municipal treasurer for Nkambe council is likely to be the major contestant to Nkenda’s ambitions of picking a second mandate as mayor given that he hails from Dumbu area. He is a community mobilizer and has God given charm that  makes a good leader. He is also a favourite for the crown of mayorship.

Yougouda Bouba Adamou: He hails from Akweto and has the backing of El Hadj Baba Danpoullo. Even though he has been mute over the issue, allegations abound that he could spring surprises if he declares candidature. The presence of Elhaj Baba Danpoullo in Misaje on polling day amidst PM Yang’s convoy, speaks for itself.

Nkambe-Uncertainty

With the SDF haven been bundled out obnoxiously, elections of the next mayor of Nkambe council is highly expected to produce the person who will enter Mangoh’s shoes. However, here are the potentials that public opinion in Nkambe is favourable on their capabilities.  Some may not have shown interest in the bid, but they fall within the ranks of the people who could handle the council.

Ngabir Paul Bantar: He is the Section President and hails from Nkambe village. His being there as Section President is not by luck or error but by merit. However, it Ngabir Paul who is the favourite candidate given that he is jam-packed with experiences in project writing and his legacies at the helm of CamCCUL and BAPCCUL speaks volume. He is the favourite per popular opinion and he has sacrificed a lot for the party. He enjoys the support of young boys in Nkambe who are threatening that if he is not selected, they will all cross carpet. But seemingly Ngabir Paul may have potential challengers lik:

Nfor Musa Shey: He hails from Ngwanri and accumulatively, he is the delegate of the Chamber of Agriculture, President of CamCCUL, BAPCCUL and ANEMCAM. He is a heavyweight and has thoroughness in development issues; he is popular candidate for the job despite putting on several caps which might be too heavy. But much is also expected of him given his capabilities in development endeavours.

Musa Adamu Amos Shey: He is a veteran journalist and could spring surprises. His international reputation is an added advantage. Musa Adamu Amos Shey alias Adamu Musa who hails from Binshua is an asset but unfortunately he could not win elections in Binshua. Affair a suivre.

Nfor Frederick Budi: He hails from Binka and is the Binka people’s choice for mayorship. If he gets the backing of Shey Jones, he is likely to pick the mayoral position. Yet Kimbi Mangeh alias Bob Mickey and Nchuwa Monica could surface in the last minute for the race.

Ngala Ngah Jacob: He hails from Mbot and he is likely to be a good candidate for mayorship. He is the popular name from Mbot who many things can make a good mayor for Nkambe. However, any of the two Chifus on the list could equally spring surprises given their aptitudes and leadership qualities.

Ako: The Unforeseen

Having beaten the CPDM, the SDF will run the Ako council for the next five years except otherwise. However, in Ako seemingly three contenders have expressed their intentions for the position of mayor.

Jonathan Edu: He was the first SDF mayor for Ako and for the past 6 years, he has been in the cold given that the CPDM took over. The question as to whether Jonathan Edu will bounce back abound high. Being a senior citizen and community leader, his chances of winning the bid are high.

Akio Augustine Abe: He is former mayor and hails from extreme lower Mbembe. Implicitly, he is a major contender given his position in the party. More so, he enjoys the support of other SDF elite politicians of Donga Mantung Division. He is credited for purchasing a council hilux, a truck and constructed the Ako grandstand which for six the CPDM run council helped to destroy in just six years.

Amos Bamu Sanda: He is SDF district chairman and hails from Ako center. He is a potential candidate given that he is God-fearing and has leadership qualities that are rare in local politicians. Amos remains a major challenger in the bid for mayorship except the investiture decides otherwise. As an optician he used the macro-lens of his trade to craft the future of the SDF in Ako reasons why he took up residence back home three years ago.

Ngoba Cletus: This is trained accountant that served with ONADEF for several years and has the experience in management. He is a disciple of SDF national chairman Fru Ndi, believes very much in the ideologies of the Social Democratic Front and is admire for his astute personality put over the years. His trademark on agro-forestry is visible along the road to Abongshie. Ngoba Cletus being an ardent Christian and born again, gives him an added advantage to be vest with the post of Mayor.

Ndu: Out of the Blues
D K Nfor:  Eight SDF contenders are said to have submitted applications for the mayoral position in Ndu council. However, David Karngong Nfor is the incumbent yet doubts have been casted as to whether he would go in for another mandate not because he did not perform well but due to his age which many think he has to retire but the decision lies in the hands of the investiture. His trappings at the helm of Ndu council have attracted a lot of admirations that earned him numerous awards. Out of the eight contenders here are DK Nfor’s major challengers:

Martin Fon Yembe:  He is the former SDF chairman and has gone into record as an assailant politician. Martin’s knowledge in project writing and leadership qualities places him on the pedestal of the mayoral position. This is an asset given his journalistic skills that could make him a good lobbyist for the people of Ndu. His record as SDF Provincial Chairman with 19 parliamentarians from the North West is yet to be broken.

Bunyui Emmanuel:  He is the son of the late Bunyui Jonathan (the late workaholic mayor of Ndu). Besides, he is also a retired educationist whose community endeavours could easily be diagnosed through the Wowo Community College and how he interacts with others. He is surely one of the favourites for the top job. He has served in various positions in the party given that he was also Altenate MP to Hon. Esther Ngala.

Nformi Lucas Docta: He is one of the contenders for the mayoral position for Ndu. His ability to deliver the goods can also never be doubted given that he has proven that he could bring about innovation.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa

Scramble for Mayorship in NW, Here are the Potentiel Mayors

 Mezam Division
Santa: Kan Elroy Prominent
The Santa Council is shared between the CPDM and the SDF party. Yet the CPDM council list leader Kan Elroy is the popular choice for mayorship. Kan Elroy’s measuring rod is no other person than the former SDF mayor Wanki Clement Atanga. However, Kan Elroy will enter into record as the first CPDM mayor for Santa since 1990. Commonly known as the Man of God, his philanthropist gestures and orientations towards fostering development would materialize with his being elected mayor. Kan Elroy has no challenger given the magnitude of the support he enjoys from CPDM councilors.
Bamenda I: Tembang Paul, Caroline Bi Bongwa Tipped
With Achou Simon being kicked out obnoxiously, the race to the Bamenda I mayoral position lies in the hands of the CPDM. Atembang Paul is the man in-charge and enjoys the support of Minister Atanga Nji. He is a sure bet for the mayoral position for Bamenda I pending the decision of the court on the electoral malpractices. Even though the Bamenda City Council Delegate Vincent Ndumu Nji (another Nji) is spitting fire over Minister Atanga’s invasion of Bamenda I on horse back to celebrate a victory that he never worked for. He says Minister Atanga has no right to impose anybody on the Bamenda I people as mayor.
Caroline Bi Bongwa: She is the head of the council list and a favourite for the mayoral position. She has the intellectual thoroughness that is very rare in politicians. This daughter of a former Minister is a popular choice for the position of mayor. If election of mayor were by universal suffrage, Caroline Bi Bongwa would have had a 99% crushing win.
Bamenda II: Balick Awah Fidelis to be Trusted
Balick Awah Fidelis is the incumbent mayor. Indicators are rife at that he is going to succeed self at the helm of the Bamenda II council. Even though a challenger may surface at the last minute, Balick remains a sure bet for the mayoral position given his achievements. The movement for the restoration of Mankon nationhood can play negatively or positively given that he, Balick enjoys the blessings of the Paramount Fon of Mankon though CPDM.
Bamenda III: Fonguh Clestus, Barrister Abednego Earmarked
Fonguh Cletus is the incumbent mayor and his chances of becoming mayor are on the balance following his managerial savvy. He picked the crown of mayorship when the dynamic late Prince Ahmandou Pius kicked the bucket.
Barrister Abednego: He is also tipped by the people of Nkwen as the next mayor. He is the man fit for the job many say yet every eye is turn towards the SDF investiture as Wednesday approaches. 
Bali: Wandum Bunga Ernest may Pick the Crown
He is the head of the council list yet four others are puck-nosing for the mayoral position. Wandum Ernest is the man in-charge and enjoys the support of many CPDM militants in Bali. Except the unexpected happens, Ernest may replace Nwayalla Raymond who withdrew thought it better to stay off council business.
Bafut: Langsi Abel Confirmed
Langsi Abel is the sitting mayor and public opinion in Bafut puts him high. He has the needed support to succeed self at the helm of Bafut council. He remains a masterpiece sustainable development when judged from his past achievements. Except otherwise Langsi has no major challenger in the race for mayorship. The only obstacle is the long standing notion that no mayor succeeds self in Bafut council. May be this myth can be broken following Langsi’s charisma.
Tubah: Tanjong Martin, Stanislaus Tussling
Sofa Stanislaus is the present mayor of Tubah council yet his fate depends on the decision of the investiture. If the District chairman is favoured, Tanjong will emerge as the next mayor of Tubah. However, popular opinion holds that since Tanjong lost elections in Bambili, his chances of taking over the mayoral position is on the balance. Taking in to consideration his erudite campaigns in the whole of Tubah that led to SDF victory, his sins can be forgiven notwithstanding that Bambili is on the begging side that this year is their turn to produce the mayor. Affair a suivre.

Bui Division
Kumbo: Njong Donatus Untouchable
Njong Donatus Fonyuy is the current mayor of Kumbo. He has been there for close to 17 years. He is celebrated for his numerous achievements as mayor of Kumbo. After all, Njong remains the most talk-about mayor in the North West Region. Even though allegations abound that some two challengers may emerge at the level of the investiture, Njong would be preferred. He is a sure bet except the unexpected happens at the level of the investiture.
 Nkor: Wache Francis Favourite
 With Shey Kume being booted out alongside the CPDM and the SDF emerging victorious, Fonyuy Francis Wache is the well-liked candidate for mayorship in Nkor council. Wache’s experiences as a perfect journalist coupled with his know-how at CEFAM are an asset. Unconditionally, he is the best for the post of mayor at this point in time that much is being said about decentralization.
Elak-Oku: Ngum Jerome on Top
He is a force to reckon with given his aptitude in handling administrative, developmental and financial matters. The mayor in office in Elak-Oku council, Ngum Jerome would be no other person like the man who has set the pace through his achievements. Allegedly three more contenders are waxing to face Ngum Jerome in the race including his second deputy mayor with Yang Alfred main one of the outsiders.
Jakiri: Jaff Romanus Bounces Back
With the America wander talkative CPDM mayor having been vomited out in Jakiri, Jaff Romanus, the one time dynamic SDF mayor is the name on every lip. This workaholic is a professional pig farmer, a development oriented giant and man-of-the people. Except otherwise, popular opinion see him as the favourite and the best mayor the SDF can offer in Jakiri.
Nkum: Mayenin Amadu Kifon for Continuity?
He is the sitting mayor of Nkum council and is the favourite for the mayoral race. His challengers are lightweights given that for the past years he has proven his worth at the helm of the Nkum council. But since familiarity breeds contempt, the investiture may think otherwise even though he is better to ensure continuity.
Mbiame: Fonyuy Fidelis to Make It
He is the incumbent mayor but is hardly seen in his municipality yet is applauded by the population for his prowess. Even though he administers by proxy, no councilor is raising a finger to challenge him.
Momo Division
Andek: Agarih Walters to Resurface as Mayor
With the absence of the incumbent CPDM Aghogo Johnny in the list of councilors and the controversy surrounding the communal stamp scandal, no one has been tipped for mayorship. The former Regional Delegate MINEPIA North West, Agarih Walters is however prominent of the list of those who could enter Aghogo’s shoes as the next CPDM mayor for Andek. He is a system’s man and has the capacity to instill development efforts in Andek.
Njikwa: WANDUM Bernard Shooting the Stars
Wandum Bernard is the council list leader and he is heading for the stars. With the stamps scandal haven rocked the Njikwa council, prospects abound that he should instill hope in the municipality.
Mbengwi: Sanji Joseph Gets Pass Note
He is a man who has set a mark as a development luminary in Mbengwi. He is cadre at the National Assembly, yet serviceable and available too. He is the popular choice and would receive the support of the councilors. He is the favourite.
Batibo: Tenoh Lawrence, Tanjuh Fred Neck-to-Neck
Tenoh Lawrence is the man in charge given that he is incumbent mayor. Tenoh has the backing of the population yet skeptics continue to link him to the communal stamp scandal. His trappings in fostering development efforts in Batibo as SDF mayor have been laudable. He may have a very stiff challenger if Mbartifuh decides to contest.
Tanjuh Fred has been the first deputy mayor for Batibo and has demonstrated his strength and leadership qualities. He enjoys the support from the youth and is likely going to be a good mayor given that he had proven his worth when the mayor was napped in the stamp saga.
Widikum: Chief Awuba May Spring Surprises
He is an old hand in administration and a wider experience in council management systems. With the former mayor booted out, public opinion in Widikum sees Chief Awuba as the next CPDM mayor for that municipality.

Ngoketunjia Division
Babessi: Weh Championing. Weh Michael Nah is head of the CPDM council list for Babessi. Except the political kingpins dictate another candidate, Weh Michael is favourite for the mayoral seat. He might not have demonstrated interest but he is the man many say could enter into the shoes of Tikanjo Stephen as mayor of Babessi council.
Ndop: Chengwe Cecilia, Mbombo Abel Emerging Ahead Ntoh Daniel
Ntoh Daniel: He is the incumbent and is still very young. Even though he was wrapped in the communal stamp scandal, Ntoh Daniel remains a heavyweight in Ndop politics. His trappings as mayor of Ndop have not been bad at all.
Mbombo Abel Chery: He was formerly the 1st Deputy Mayor for Ndop. He is a chartered accountant and had won admiration from the populace when the mayor Ntoh Daniel was caught up in the stamp scandal.
He is likely to pick the mayoral position if the investiture doesn’t give preference to the list leader who is a woman.
Chengwe Cecilia: She emerged as the CPDM list leaders. She may likely break the myth as she is heading picking the crown of Ndop mayor. If she is preferred over Ntoh Daniel and Mbombo Abel Chery, she would be the ever first female mayor of the North West Region.
Balikumbat: Awasum Augustine Unchallenged
He is the incumbent CPDM mayor. Seemingly Awasum has no serious challenger and is 85% sure to succeed self as mayor of Balikumbat for a second mandate. Except councilors of Bafanji, Baligashu and Balikumbat gang against him, he remains a sure bet.

Menchum Division:
Wum: Dinghabong Anthony Taking over from Njukwe Charles
He is the YCPDM Section President and head of the council list. He is a sure bet for mayoral position given that the incumbent Njukwe Charles was kicked off from the list. The Aghem man and woman is of the opinion that Dinghabong Julius is the best for now in Menchum.
Benakuma: Akum Augustine, Kum Henry Eyeing
Akum Augustine is head of the CPDM list. He is the favourite for mayorship given that he was very active during campaigns. He accredits self for CPDM success. He would likely be a good mayor.
Kum Henry Ichu: He is former SDF Provincial chairman who decamped. Kum is a household name in the North West and he is a politician not to pigeon-hole with. He is likely to make a good mayor if the Central Committee gives him the backing. (a suivre).
Furu-Awa Kuteshey Julius Surfacing
Kuteshey Julius is head of the SDF list for Furu-Awah. Public opinion in Furu-Awah sees him as the next mayor given the sacrifices. More so, his leadership qualities abound high.
Zhoa:Tem Peter to Succeed Ateh Jonas
Tem Peter is a business man and a man of the people given his involvement in Credit Union activities. He is a force to reckon with when it comes to developmental issues. Even though he has four contenders, majority of them are non-residence in Fungom. However, Akein Donatus alias Menchum, is likely to pick the position of deputy mayor.

Boyo Division
Belo: Tosam Beranard, Paddy Yong Top on the Chart
Tosam Bernard has a bulk of experience in council issues given his long stay as SDF mayor for Belo. He may succeed self if preferred by the investiture.
Paddy Yong is another strong and vibrant leader who could spring a lot of surprises. If the investiture decides otherwise on Tosam Bernard succeeding self, the preference would likely be Paddy Yong. His aptitude in administration cannot be underestimated.
Njinikom: Julius Peters up the Ladder
He is popular and well known in his municipality. In 2007, he missed by an inch the opportunity of taking over the mayoral position. Given his leadership qualities and his workaholic nature, he would be preferred by the investiture of the SDF party. With the incumbent already out of the race, Julius Peters is a sure bet.
Fundong: Ndang Denis the Fore Runner
He is a diehard CPDM militant and has been very consistent in molding the CPDM party in Fundong. Even though allegations abound that Fundong may witness a re-run, for the time being Ndang Denis is the man tipped for mayorship. His leadership qualities can never be pigeon-hole with. He is a sure bet for mayorship.
Fonfuka: Gwei Philip, Prince Michelson Ngwe on the Bid
Gwei Philip has served as 1st Deputy Mayor under Senator Wanlo John. He has a mastery of how the council functions and has made his own resounding contribution to the success story of the CPDM. He is one of the favourites.
Prince Michelson Ngwe is not a new name in Bum politics, a diehard CPDM militant they say. What is interesting about Prince Michelson is that he has leadership qualities that are very rare in politicians. He could make a good mayor too for Fonfuka.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. Minute by Minute Report on Cameroon and Africa