Teenagers Rape 80 Years Retired Head Mistress

By Abanda Marcel in Nkambe

An atmosphere of insecurity reins in Wat village after the population of village recorded the most traumatizing incident in the history of that village. Two boys whose names we got as Nfor Robert and Emmanuel Nforgwei are reported to have raped a retired head teacher. According to information gathered the two young boys attacked the retired school head teacher (name withheld) who was on her way to the farm. We also gathered that the two young men who were coming from an abortive mission fell on the on the retired teacher and after committing the abomination deprived her of 75.000 FCFA. One of the perpetrators we learn is currently in detention at the Nkambe prison while one is at large.  The daughter of the victim narrates that when they reported the sad incident to the police,  there was no delay. She continued that the Policeman arrive the village he first arrested and handcuffed Emmanuel Nforgwei who was by the door before he proceeded inside to handcuff Nfor Robert. But Emmanuel Nforwgwei though in a village, varnished with the handcuff. Sources hinted that when Emmanuel Nforgwei later removed the handcuff and dropped it on the road and a farmer by name Pa. Isaiah saw it and thought he had picked a nice chain. As he look and observed the shinning nature of the object he has just picked something came to his mind that he should put it round his hand. When it was done, he discovered he could not open it. For more than tow days, his family was in agony and neigbours were not even informed until when his hand swelled. As the information filtered out, the entire village came to Pa’s compound as if he was dead. It was thanks to the timely intervention of a retired Wader peace regained the village. Sources say Emmanuel Nforgwei was spotted in Bamenda this week. Allegations are rife that at the time they were picked up, they had marijuana on them. Mbabi in Wat is becoming another Marijuana heaven in Nkambe.  Emmanuel Nforgwei police sources hinted escaped from the Bamenda Prison after they were wrist up by forces of law and Order after a successful Bank robbing in Bamenda.The village is reported in a state of shock as the news of the reap continue to spread in near by villages. Public opinion holds that the retired head teacher may not be their first victim giving that it is common that women would suffer in pains but would always keep such incident a secret. However, as the retired head mistress break the silence, the judiciary will set an example.

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

BAPCCUL Joins 111 Other Credit Unions to Vote “Yes” for 3 Years Mandate Renewable Twice

 

Just about two months from the time when the process to harmonize the Cameroon Cooperative Credit Union League-CamCCUL, kick-started in the field, some 111 out of 117 credit that have held their extraordinary General Assemblies unions of the 200 nationwide are reported to have voted “yes” for the 3 year mandate renewable twice. According to information gathered the 3 years mandate renewable twice as prescribed by the Minister of Finance is being given a yes. Friday November 2, 2012, members of the Bamenda Police Cooperative Credit Union joined 109 other credit unions to validate the process in order to enable CamCCUL to implement all necessary reforms based OHADA Uniform Acts which Cameroon is a signatory. In an interview with journalists in Bamenda after the meeting Musa Shey Nfor said it was an opportunity for members to express opinions and even their contrary. He added that with “more than 95% already voted yes for the three year mandate renewable twice” it is clear that members are aware of the stakes and would not allow detractors to put their savings in danger. The Extraordinary meeting of the Bamenda Police Cooperative Credit Union took a dramatic twist when Barrister Kemende Henry moved to the rostrum   to enjoin CamCCUL management for implementing the law. “I have not been against the system but I have been against the old executive still in office after their mandates expired. It was wrong for people elected to hang on power. As to whether the incumbent should go to elections, I wanted the chance by which the mandates should be renewed”. Barrister Kemende who from the start was against the ongoing process took members aback when he stood up and outlined some pertinent points why the process would be more useful for the sustainability of the leading micro finance network in Cameroon.

It should be recalled that the Minister’s instruction was poorly interpreted by a group of people who see nothing good in anything except in form of bread as “CamCCUL Crisis” yet they have started back paddling in favour. The most interesting thing is that these very reforms were debated upon democratically and adopted by affiliates of CamCCUL during an extraordinary meeting in Buea in 2011 in what was formerly known as “Model Credit Union By-laws”. The Buea meeting was later followed by another by a team of legal experts in Bamenda on July 6, 2012. However, some credit union leaders just a handful who endorsed the resolution moved on tree tops and started creating disorder. They were joined in the mess by former NW Governor Abakar Ahamat who frustrated the process until the Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Finance and Territorial Administration intervened to call him to order. As a supervisory monetary authority, the Minister of Finance had to step into the scene to stop the wrangling. However, nothing was change, rather the Minister gave instruction for the process to start from naught and give a timeframe within which it should be completed. He instructed that affiliates of CamCCUL should vote new mandates from amongst four options. The options are: Five years renewable once, three years renewable twice, four years renewable once and three years renewable once. The process is overseen by representative of the administration, representative of the Minister of Finance, the representative of the Minister of agriculture and CamCCUL. However, some credit union leaders especially of the Azire Credit union have been trying to frustrate the Minister’s instruction by carrying out wrong procedures. A week ago, an Extraordinary meeting by the said credit union was banned because it did not respect the timeframe led down. With already 111 of credit unions of 117 having voted for the three year mandate renewable twice, there is hope that the process will be hitch free contrary to what detractors had predicted reasons why some of them have started back-paddling.

With these results already recorded, one can predict the outcome of the issues on mandate and eligibility. 


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Here are the World's Longest Serving Head of Statess

 No Comment!!!
Alexander Grigoryevich Lukashenko of Belarus since 1994
Emomalii Rahmon of Tajikistan since 1992
Isaias Afewerki of Eritrea since 1991
Nursultan Abishuly Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan since 1990
Islom Abdug‘aniyevich Karimov of Uzbekistan since 1989 (1990?)
Isaias Afewerki of Eritrea since 1991
General Idriss Déby Itno of Chad since 1990.
Lieutenant General Omar Hassan Ahmad Al-Bashir of Sudan since 1989
Robert G. Mugabe of Zimbabwe since 1980
Blaise Compaoré of Burkina Faso since 1987
Yoweri musuveni of Uganda since 1986
Paul Biya of Cameroon since 1982
Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatoria Guinea since 1979
José Eduardo dos Santos of Angola since 1979


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Shey Jones Yembe: The Pearl Paul Biya Has in Donga Mantung

 By FC Ndi

Shey Jones Yembe

Shey Jones Yembe is a Member of the Central Committee of the CPDM and head of the Central Committee delegation for Nkambe Central Sub Division to oversee celebrations marking President Biya's 30 years in power. As a matter of fact, he is a devoted militant whose continues preaching about the goodies of the CPDM and its chairman Paul Biya has changed the political landscape in Nkambe Central Sub Division. While there are CPDM militants who are SDF lackeys at night, Shey Jones Yembe is CPDM for 24 hours on 24, 7 days of the week and 12 months in the year. This commitment to President Biya and the CPDM is not mere fanatism. Shey Jones like many other supporters of the CPDM in Mbumland and in Donga Mantung Division know that the development of Donga Mantung Division can only come through President Biya and not through people who punch the air with their fists crying power that can never provide potable water to a community not to talk of roads, schools, and or hospitals.

While many CPDM militants only pay lip service to the ruling party and its national chairman President Paul Biya, Shey Jones translates his, into actions. The best way to prove that he loves the CPDM is not only to work towards victory for the ruling party and chairman, but also to do good things so as to convince more militants to join him in the winning side. Reasons why he has worked hard to improve on the image of the CPDM during the past years in Mbum land. What is interesting about Nkambe Central is the fact that there are many people with different political views, yet, Shey Jones has stood the taste of time as the most convincing politician in Mbum land. Ever since he entered into active politics, he had never told a lie. In fact he is widely appreciated as a rare specie of politician that is very hard to come-by nowadays. However, as local elections are approaching, there is no doubt that the CPDM will carry the day. In the last elections, CPDM results created panic and sensation in the other side. Just because all this while he has made the people to identify one goal in politics which is development. Even though some people may sympathize with the opposition but they know the opposition has nothing to offer. During the last Presidential elections, Shey Jones advised his people to invest in the future reasons why Nkambe Central came up with the highest votes count in the Division and even the region. He explained that the future is found in the CPDM and Paul Biya. Far from insulting the opposition, Shey Jones used a very polite language and down to earth illustrations to convince people to vote for the candidate of the CPDM in the last Presidential elections. From Nkambe to Binka down to Tabenken, up to Wat and Mbot, Shey Jones has always transformed his words into actions. If you have never met a convincing politician, met him in the field and you will agree with me that he has the God given charm that attracts people.

Shey Jones and the November 6 Fanfare in Nkambe

Since it has been proven that the greatness of an event is quite often determined by the person or persons who organize it, November 6, 2012 celebration in Nkambe is expected to be a “jamais –vu”, thanks to Shey Jones Yembe.  This is because he has made the CPDM a religion in Nkambe. There is going to be rapture at the  Fon Japbfu Ibrahim Nfor’s Grandstand because the entire Nkambe Central Sub Division will come out to commemorate President Biya's 30 years in power. This is so because as a man, Shey Jones Yembe is soft spoken, respectful, honest and friendly. Nkambe people have decided to rally behind him not only because they know his development prowess, but because they cherish him as a person. When Shey Jones was Secretary of State for Public works and later Planning and Regional Development, he made the Mbum man proud. Even as the CEO of Societe Mag or at Matgiene where he was Board chair before his recent appointment as Board Chairman of Douala Port Authority, he remains a down to earth person. It is easy to think that Shey Jones is fanatical or wants to seek personal aggrandizement. No! Far from it, as an individual he is economically filled. But unfortunately, his people still need good roads, health centers, good infrastructures, schools etc etc. Shey Jones Yembe believes firmly like Nkwame Nkruma that we should first seek the political kingdom and everything else would come.

The SDF is a party that is deeply rooted in the Northwest and one of those areas was Nkambe. Gradually, they are changing to the CPDM and gradually Shey Jones Yembe’s message has broken the barrier. Like someone once said, a vote for the CPDM in the Northwest Region is worth a thousand votes down the center region, Shey Jones knows that real change is coming and the moment has come for him to celebrate that transformation. Politics is a game of interest, “you scratch my back, I scratch your back, because politics na njangi” says Rt. Hon. Achidi Achu former Prime Minister. This statement of Rt. Hon. Achidi Achu is so realistic that nobody in his right senses can discard it. When the SDF was launched in 1990 nobody saw this definition and its relevance. Today, the scales have fallen off the eyes of many Northwesteners. Shey Jones is one of those realistic individuals and a permanent pillar on which President Paul Biya can lean on in the North West Region.

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A Critical Judgment Analysis of President Biya's 30 Years in Power (The Good)

 By Baweson Ndi
 Paul Biya is 30 years old as President of the Republic of Cameroon while the CPDM is 27 years old, three years younger. The 30 years of President Paul Biya as Head of State does not only calls for celebrations, it also a moment that Biya supporters have to reflect on the thunderous path he took when on November 6, 1982 he took the famous oath of “I do so Swear”.  Before being sworn in on November 6, 1982, Paul Biya had served as Prime Minister to late President Ahidjo for seven years. The Eye moves beyond the ordinary to examine the positive vistas of President Biya’s 30 years in power.
The preliminary ideologies of President Paul Biya were presented in a roadmap known as the New Deal policy which was imbued in the virtues of rigour and moralization, and communal liberalism. To understand the vision Paul Biya had for Cameroon is to identify the cornerstones of Rigour and Moralization and or Communal Liberalism. With it was a policy that opted for the reintroduction of multiparty politics, a free society and democracy. Unfortunately, the ingredients with which the policies were engraved touched the interest of some conservationists within. The dissenting voices finally exploded like volcano in a coupe plot. And on April 6, 1984, some of his detractors stage an attempt to remove him from power through the barrel of the gun. Regrettably for the coupe plotters, evil could not triumph over the truth. By the time that Cameroonians wanted to refocus their energy and support Biya to set Cameroon towards achieving his New Deal political programme, another disaster hit the country. It wasn’t man made anyway but a natural disaster that took place at Nyos claiming thousands of lives. When the storm was over, Cameroon was caught in the wrap of the economic crisis. The world economic crisis affected almost every sector, even though Paul Biya managed to sustain the economy from collapsing into th doldrums, Cameroon’s five years development plan that had been guiding development process in the country shrunken. The civil service was like in a jungle, while the rich became richer, the poor became poorer. President Biya was then obliged to go in for structural adjustment. Salaries of civil servants were cut-down, and President Biya called on Cameroonians to tighten their sleeves.
The Modernizer
Between 1982 and 1985, Paul Biya’s mindset geared towards economic recovery and setting the pace for democracy. In 1985 he decided to introduce a political platform that could accompany his aspirations for Cameroon. That is how the CPDM in Bamenda to match those aspirations while the CNU died a natural death. As if to say he was seeing tomorrow, President Biya told radio Monte Carlos in France that he would be remembered as the man who brought democracy to Cameroon. In December 1990, the anti democratic laws of 1962 were scraped off by the National Assembly to usher in new laws that give room for democracy, freedom expression, freedom of associations and liberty. Thus, the law harmonizing the freedom of association, speech, political parties and religious groups brought democratic process. To accompany these measures, the issue of regional balance and national integration was not just in principle but was put to practice. Whether multiparty politics was forced into his throat or not is an issue because if he had said no to it, no matter the wind that was blowing it would have passed, bookmakers observed. But Biya accepted and granted Cameroonians even though some of his colleagues moved to the street claiming Cameroonian were not prepared for such a process. The revision of the constitution of 18, January 1996, aided President Biya to refocus his policies. The introduction of the Senate, Constitutional Council and the regions to replace the provinces was another innovative mark of the head of state to accompany democratic process. The Criminal Procedure Code of 2005 added value to guarantee the liberty of Cameroonians. The creation of the national Human Rights Commission could not be emphasized as it was added impetus to the issue of freedom in the country. To concretized it by signing a decree creating an election observatory known as the National Election Observatory –NEO.  Though with limited powers, it set the pace for the creation of the independent election body, Elections Cameroon.
The Achiever
As President Biya clocks 30 on November 6, 2012, Cameroonians will be celebrating some of his outstanding achievements. It is a fact that Cameroon has made giant strides under the leadership of President Paul Biya both socially, economically and politically. The greatest achievement that Cameroonians have enjoyed is the peace that has ensued for the past 30 years. Even though there had been little raptures here and there, Cameroon has been politically stable and thus scoring high standard diplomatic goals. With over 260 political parties in the country, Biya has proven himself as the most flexible President in the African continent. He introduced the National Program on Good Governance in the year 2000 and later revised it in 2005 to suit present realities. His open diplomacy has been achieved through peaceful resolution of conflict and the preservation of Cameroon’s boundary integrally.
In the economic sphere, Paul Biya brought in the concept of privatization of public companies in order to encourage foreign investments in the country as well as reduce the rate at which state funds were been squandered. Besides, Cameroon also qualified for the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative-HIPC. Getting to the completion point of the Heavily Indebted Poor Country Initiative enabled he country gain over FCFA 225 billion FCFA. Socially, the country has also registered a lot of accomplishments ranging from the recruitment of 2500 health workers, the overture of the Ministry of Social Affairs, as well as the building of reference hospitals in the country. The creation of state universities, Buea, Garoua, Bamenda and the separation of the Yaounde University to I & II set the credence of the educational sector. In the education sector, it is clear that every village in the country has at least a government primary school and the slightest is that an agglomeration of villages is given a high school. Technical education for example also registered the creation of Higher Technical Teachers Training College-ENSIET. Even though the national team, the Indomitable Lion recorded very poor performances recently, the beginning years of Biya were extremely glorious as in 1984 Roger Milla, Abega and co made the country proud by winning the African Cup of Nation. Repeatedly Cameroon won the trophy in 1988, 2000, and in 2002.  In the domain of infrastructure development, the Mvele Dam, Lome Mpanga dam, Lagdo, Bamenjim Dam embed in the greater accomplishment program justifies why his supporters have to celebrate. The Kribi deep Sea port project and the Cameroon-Chad pipeline project are also the cornerstones of the 30 years of Biya’s leadership qualities. The development of the mining sector and revamping of the agricultural sector with the reintroduction of the National Agropastoral show is also indicative. The ease and tact in Cameroon use it diplomatic prowess in winning Bakassi back to Cameroon and other villages along the border line almost guaranteed him a Noble Peace Prize.
Fight against Corruption
When President Biya promised that Cameroon was going to change, many of those whom he called up to help stir the ship of the country thought it was a joking statement. He said corruption and embezzlement of public funds must become a thing of the past. He started by launching “operation antelope” that scraped off ghost government workers from enjoying taxpayers money. Over 15.000 ghost workers were trapped and the pay roll was cleansed. He further strengthened the actions by launching “operation sparrow hawk” which has sent to prison many government officials. Actually, corrupt officials are languishing in jail for siphoning public funds. Amongst the high profile personalities arrested for corrupt practices, one could cite, Former Prime Minister Chief Ephraim Inoni, Marafa Hamidou Yaya, Polycarp Abah Abah, Urbain Olengana Owona, Atangana Mebara,  Haman Adama, Mouchipou Seidou, Catherine Abena, Titus Edoa, all former ministers. Amongst directors and general managers of state corporations are Ondong Ndong Gerald, Forjidam, Edouard Ekoto, Nguini Effa, etc etc….
The political Maradona
President Biya according to bookmakers has been a political Maradona for 30 years. How he dribbles the opposition has been remarkable and fascinating too. In a bid to neutralize the opposition, Biya has not only been using force but the tactics of diversion to divide the opposition parties. He has always been apt to divert public opinion on government shortcomings. And the opposition has always fall prey to his political game plans. When he discovered that Cameroonians were sucked in the idea of the National Conference advocated by the opposition, he proposed the Tripartite. When the Tripartite finally took place in Yaounde on October 11, 1991, what followed was the collapsed of the group of the coordination of political parties and civil society. When some political parties decided to sign and others like the SDF rejected, there was division and the coordination ended in shambles. In the 1992 Presidential when the Northwest refused that he had won, he imposed a state of emergency. To divert public attention, he introduced the “grande debate”  and then used Kontchou Komengni as the parroted public speaker to change the minds of Cameroonians. In 1997, he introduced dialogue and the talks between the CPDM and the SDF that never yielded any fruits but calmed flaring tempers. When the SDF asked for an independent electoral commission, Paul Biya created NEO, an elections observatory in response. He used the same trick for Daikoli to join the government and it was the trick that brought on board NUDP of Bello Bouba Maigari to enter government. A similar trick divided the UPC into fractions thus weakening it. One of the headaches of Biya has been Hon. Adama Modi, who was like an opposition in the CPDM.


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The Epileptic Moments of a Collapsing Regime in 30 years Nov.6 1982-Nov 6, 2012(The Bad)

  By Haiza Labro

President Paul Biya

November 06, 2012 is tomorrow. And tomorrow, the Head of State, President of the Republic of Cameroon, H.E Paul Biya has spent 30 years in power. To this, if we add the seven years he served under late President Adhijo as Prime Minister; you will understand why he could easily be described by bookmakers as the Maradona of Cameroon politics. For these 30 years, shopping baskets have been empty, injustice and inequality, the drama of abject poverty has been perpetual and unspeakable in homes. Rich and beggars (piling up every day), the rate of unemployed experiencing exponential growth, crime weaves increased while corruption sows the winds of impunity.  Insecurity and fear of the unknown rocked supreme in the cities. The fight against corruption and embezzlement as well as ghost civil servants was intensified. From communal liberalism, Biya took Cameroonians in his New Deal Policy through Greater Ambitions and Greater Accomplishments. During the 30 years, he invited the administrative elite to the table to eat and shut up. Anyone who raises the nose has risked being eaten by the regime through Operation Sparrow hawk.  For three decades, the tenant of Etoudi, failed to lift Cameroon to the “abnormality” of that “everything is possible”. An unconsciousness democracy whereby the dead were always appointed carried the day, good governance and alternation was a dream. He built a straightjacket security better, a labyrinth, personal strategies to conserve power and to prevail over laws of the Republic. Three decades, the “lion man”, opted an operations charm and actions towards the promotion of leisure he gave opium to the people. The Indomitable Lions of which were sold at high prices sank to the doldrums. The avalanche strata of decay and decadence became deplorable. For three decades, he has managed to develop and even patronize all other “forces” of the opposition by breaking all the whims to dictate the pace for credible and transparent elections. He used the same tricks to reduce intellectuals and academics to be helpless, unproductive and ineffective and they found solace in signing motions of support.
In a few days, perhaps hours, the curtains will open the festive aspects of the 30 years of Biyatism. High profile civil servants will ignite fireworks to confiscate the newspapers and airwaves to sing praises. Be ready to hear people calling on the President to represent the CPDM in 2018 Presidential elections.
Democracy
Paul Biya announced on France 24 that the question of his candidacy in 2011 was remote. Many political commentators still hold forth on this pretense of President Biya, when a few days after a few elites of Lekié (Essimi Menye, Henri Eyebe Ayissi Ndongo Esomba etc.) launched “the call of Lékié” which implored the head of state CPDM unique and natural candidate in the 2011 presidential election despite term limits. This action followed the pacific march of Forjindam calling for the revision of the constitution that swept Cameroon. The debate swelled. But Cameroonians were made to believe, as stated by Paul Biya, the subject of the 2011 presidential election was far away. And thunder ... In his end of year speech delivered on 31 January 2007, the President of the Republic expressed his willingness to proceed with a constitutional amendment. As such, Article 6, paragraph 2, which states that the President of the Republic is elected for seven years, renewable once was modified. Whereas this was the only constitutional provision eliminated him from participating in the 2011 Presidential elections. This was arrangement made during the Tripartite of 1991 with opposition parties and the civil society which was promulgated on 18 January 1996. Notwithstanding the riots in February 2008, held up constitutional fear but as lucky as he is, the wind of change had to change it direction in his favour. Other instruments like the constitutional council, a bicameral parliament, the declaration of assets and property as well as the presidential term limits are hard to come by. But the brave man has never consented to implement. And for good reason, analyze political scientists, he fears that the implementation of these provisions would be catastrophic for the project to remain in power for life. The process of decentralization, of which the application is made only in 2006, is like a snail. But councils are still looking inward as the evening star until the day they are autonomous. At a higher level, we waited over 12 years for the provinces to become regions. Until then, we did not cross the line from a simple
Multiparty Politics
The year 1990 marks the beginning of the democratic process in Cameroon with the creation of a “National Coordination for multi-party democracy” which earned Yondo Black, Albert Mukong and several people being arrested for subversion in Douala. Their trial before the military court in Yaoundé in March will result in an initial mobilization of the Cameroon Bar Association to support both the accused and their claims.
Despite the official denial of multiparty, John Fru Ndi launched the SDF in May 1990 in Bamenda. Bamenda was militarized and during the launching of the Social Democratic Front (SDF) six people were killed. On 3 June 1990, the Episcopal Conference of Cameroon published a pastoral letter that openly criticized the government. On 4 July 1990, President Paul Biya abandoned the political monopoly exercised by the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM). A commission to revise the legislation on civil liberties was created by decree on 21 July. From December 1990, the National Assembly passed a series of laws including a law on freedom of association and formation of political parties.These liberalization measures did not prevent the authority to carryout numerous arrests of opponents. From March 1991, in the wake of intense popular mobilization that paralyzed the economic life of the country for 6 months. Cameroonians were caught in a net known as “Ghost Town”. The civil disobedience was calling on the Biya regime to organize a Sovereign National Conference. From April 1991, the operations “ghost towns”, the riots and demonstrations spread to the whole country.  In an attempt to resolve the political crisis; President Biya announced elections and constitutional reform. Given the magnitude of crisis, a state of emergency was introduced in May 1991, the “military operational command” to pacify the country. Paul Biya announced elections for February 16, 1992, and Prime Minister Sadou Hayatou opened the tripartite conference in Yaounde on October 30, 1991. Biya succeeded in his game because the opposition was divided between supporters of a prior national conference and those who were in favor of immediate participation in the electoral competition.
The first multiparty elections under Biya took place on March 1, 1992. It was heavily boycotted by the opposition gathered around the SDF radical. The CPDM, the Undp (National Union for Democracy and Progress of Bello Bouba Maïgari), the Mdr (Movement for the Defence of the Republic Dakoli Daissala) and a wing Upc shared 180 seats in Parliament with respectively 88, 68, 18 and 6 seats. This boycott was one of the blunders of the SDF of Ni John Fru Ndi to take over power. On April 26, 1992, a new government was formed CPDM Mdr and Achidi Simon Achu was appointed Prime Minister, Head of Government. On 11 October 1992, presidential elections took place. Paul Biya was re-elected with 39.9%, against 35.9% for J. Fru Ndi and 19.21% for B. Bouba Maïgari. Paul Biya was accused of rigging. The opposition cried fault and the validity of the election was questioned by a U.S. NGO, the “National Democratic Institute.” Rioting generated in the Northwest where the state of emergency was declared, the radical opposition leaders were arrested or placed under house arrest (case of J. Fru Ndi). At the same time, the government opened negotiations with the UPC and dissidents of NUDP. January 18, 1996, the National Assembly voted law No. 96-06 amending the Constitution of 2 June 1972 and Municipal and Legislative election were held on January 21, 1996. The CPDM won widely, even if the opposition parties won in their electoral strongholds the seats were insignificant. These opposition victories were gelatinized by the appointment of representatives of the government in cities like Douala, Bamenda, Garoua, Bafoussam, etc. These new delegates actually had powers of “super mayors”. The opposition responded by launching a slogan of dead cities rather poorly monitored. In February 28, 2008, following a strike by drivers, the entire nation went on flame, the Biya regime had no option than to use the forces of law and order, many youths were shoot and killed.  Even Yaounde that use to breath, and the nation was fine was not left out. Cameroonians were treated to new vocabularies such as end of the tunnel, apprentice sorcier and so on and so forth.



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30th Anniversary Message to President Paul Biya from Nwa Council

 Well Done, Mr. President!
Your 30 years at the helm of this great nation have been characterized by peace, unity, social dialogue, freedom for Cameroonians, and greatly achieved through the improvement in Human rights and democracy. Added to these, is sound economic policy, improvement in our education systems, with emphasis on bilingualism and a commitment for advancement of our democratic structures.
Your foreign policy crowns it all with spectacular events like Cameroon’s admission into the Commonwealth and Francophonie, each, being a prestigious comity of nations. We need not emphasize your skilful handling of the Bakassi crisis. The Nwa municipality joins you wholeheartedly to celebrate your 30th anniversary at the helm of state, praying God to give you and family, many more years at the helm of the state and more wisdom to continue piloting state affairs.
·    considering your policy of bringing administration closer to the people
·    Mindful of the fact that Nwa is the oldest Sub Division in the North West Region, the peace loving people of Nwa would like to plead to the Head of State at this special occasion that our Sub Division should be transformed into a full flesh Division.
On behalf the living forces of Nwa, I, Dr. Ngomfe Loma-David, Mayor of Nwa Council would like to express our encouragement to you as Cameroonians celebrate your 30 years in power. We wish you Good Health, God guidance and Pray He gives you more years to celebrate at the helm of this nation. Once more Happy Anniversary Mr. President.

Signed: Dr. Ngomfe Loma-David
Mayor of Nwa Council



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30th Anniversary Message to President Paul Biya from Bum Sub Division

 Your Excellency, the population of Fonfuka Council area as well as CPDM militants of Bum Section, Boyo IV would like to express our unflinching and unconditional support to you as we join other Cameroonians to celebrate your 30th Anniversary at the Helm of this great Nation, Cameroon.
We celebrate this event with grace and honour following the diplomatic and national victories scored during these years.
·    The progress in the democracy, economic recovery, the peace and stability Cameroonians enjoy today are very enormous and indicative of the love you have for this nation.
·    Your vision 2035 as well as your Greater Accomplishment programme, makes us proud.
·    In fact, since 1996, Bum became very steadfast and consistent in the ideals of the CPDM which resulted to the brilliant victory we scored in the 1996 Municipal and Legislative Elections. Fonfuka Council was one of the four councils ruled by the CPDM in the fief of the SDF in the North West Region. Again Bum distinguished itself in the October 2004 Presidential elections. To testify our unalloyed support to the institution which you incarnate, Bum also scored an overwhelming 74.3% in the 2007  Municipal elections and 80% in the Parliamentary to win the lone CPDM council in Boyo.
·    It is your ideals and the vision you have for this Great Nation that made Bum to be a fertile ground and the bastion of the CPDM in Boyo Division. In fact, at this special moment that we are commemorating your 30 years at the helm of our country, we your supporters have only one request. Bum wishes to have a Special Constituency as our 30th Anniversary gift from your Mr. President.
·    The people of Bum Sub Division wish you a happy anniversary.
We wish you and your Family Good Health, God guidance and Pray He gives you King Solomon’s Wisdom to continue to pilot the affairs of this nation.
                      Anniversary Mr. President.
Signed:
CPDM Section President                         Mayor of Fonfuka              WCPDM President
Gwe Philip Chia                                        Wanlo John C                 Chia Mercy  Fua
                                                 YCPDM Section President
                                                    George Kimbi





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

At Last Gregoire Owona Replies Marafa

 Full text below
 I followed very attentively from the beginning and with keen interest the editorial production of some of my fellow CPDM comrades called up to account for their management of public funds to the courts. But beyond the empathetic posture that I may have over the plight of these “political friends” of yesterday with whom we have all been part of a long course, I always had to refrain from “commenting on their comments,” deeply convinced that it is the magistrates in charge of their cases who most need their arguments, and knowing fully well that the position where I am today, I could equally be called up as well when necessary to answer for an eventual or similar “situation”.
But I can not continuously keep the silent for at least two reasons: first, these cases are brought to trial, even if here and there, appeals and cassation complaints were made.  And on the other hand, this is certainly the main reason for my speaking. One of the convicts, namely Mr. Marafa Hamidou Yaya, chose to talk directly to the Cameroonian people (myself included) simply by calling for an insurrection! I would like to begin by saying to Mr. Marafa no, no, not an uprising, because the change he promises for the future is already underway.
I would like to put it bluntly, through this free forum that: What the press has baptized “the fifth true Marafa letter” contains not only false claims that betray the author’s political consistency, but also contains outrageously declarations that are dangerous for Cameroon and it can not leave indifferent peace-loving men.  More to that I finally discovered like many of you, some media were regularly used to serve us with some information or write-ups at a welled tailored frequency and dosage.
This letter talked of the political agenda of its author: “a society of trust,” that shall be the bearer of “peace, security, justice and shared prosperity.” Besides the fact that the program is already in going on today in our country, one can not fail to be amazed at the ease and speed with which a member of the Political Bureau of the CPDM, who campaigned for the candidate of the Party, the President Paul Biya, during the presidential election of October 9, 2011, was able to build a different “vision”. The sacred text warns, however that: “No one can serve two masters: for either he will hate one and love the other, or he will hold to the one and despise the other ...” Matthew VI, 24.
Everyone can judge the “consistency” of the servant who apparently was caught with his fingers sucked in the honey pot and turns to decry for a scandal. It is not the only contradiction in the famous letter. Then you can read the seventh paragraph: “The support I ask you to give me is a moral support. In any case, it should not favour, violence, nor disturb public order. “This allusion to violence and disturbance of public order is quite revealing of the state of mind of the author who wields both understatement and antiphrasis that is to say the words that are the opposite of what we think. Is it the arsonist who takes the position of firefighter and announced in advance in the chain to ignite fire so that one day if the village is set on fire, he would declare he cannot be the author of the fire? Mask off!
Later in “the fifth letter” the twelfth and last but one paragraph is almost a call for an uprising. Read more: “But this time that you are assailed by doubts and gloom, I am sending you a message of hope and change to come. I am convinced that now from the prison where I am assigned and the place where you are, we can work together to stop the progressive deteriorating state of our country. For this, there is no need to wait seven years yet I do not know what other way. For us, for all those who do not intend to be discouraged, the future is now! “After the SDF offered him some lawyers it seems, we heard Mr. Fru Ndi declaring at its congress last Saturday in Bamenda that “Cameroon can not wait another 6 or 7 years”, but he still ends up inviting Cameroonians to register  on the electoral list!
It is well understood Mr Marafa invites us not to wait for the end of the presidential term, he must, in violation of laws and democratic principles shorten the term of President Paul Biya and make the change here and now. If this is not a call to uprising, what is it then?  How can we understand that this call for a popular uprising and rebellion is coming from someone who ran for nearly a decade, the Ministry of Territorial Administration? How can we accept that this former senior State official ends his letter with a presidential “Long live the Republic”? Could it have to come to Cameroon to forget that which he says he wants (yet) to devote to which is governed by laws, the most important and the first of them is (obviously) being  the Constitution? And that it provides that “the President of the Republic is elected for a term of seven (7) years.” It becomes very dangerous if a candidate forgets that.
The danger is that, it is by an artifice language, that they want invite the people of Cameroon for popular uprising. It is hope that turns its back on democracy. It is attacks on the actions of President Biya himself with the most resolute opponents still agree to recognize that one of his greatest achievements is unquestionably the promotion of democracy and freedom. Therefore, the proposal of Mr. Marafa is the case is a call for a popular uprising and insurgency. It is simply to get us back to practices that we believe are definitely a bygone an old era where every free expression was invariably one name: Subversion! A word that the younger generations can understand neither the content nor the terror to which it refers. A dark period of our history during which it has come to suspend the teachings of the ancient philosophy of Federal Republic of Cameroon, to ensure that the students were imbued with “subversion” of this discipline. Yit could be thought of or think of ...
It is wrong and unfair to speak of a ‘dismal failure of the current policy. “President Biya does not to blush a balance his action, even if things were not facilitated by the economy crisis as well as the loyalty of some men and women he called to his service. I would especially comeback in another forum to talk on it.
An abundant literature exists on methods of devolution political powers and political scientists are much more qualified than me to talk about. But my experience and the practice of politics have taught me that violence and insurgencies are one of the modes to power, it can not and must not be preferred to democratic competition that respects the institutions and laws of the Republic. It has been understood that the conquest for power, is the purpose of Comrade Marafa. This is of course his absolute right as a Cameroonians. On the other hand, relying on the closeness that we shared for years, I can not deny the qualities he embodies. But he should first respond to the court on his responsibilities as a manager of public funds and should differentiate between what is being reproached of him by justice and his political ambitions that he wants to mobilize Cameroonians through an uprising and undemocratic ways.
However, Cameroonians are not fools and will not be trapped easily in the multiple facets of some of their countrymen who for many years were called by President Paul Biya to serve the State at the highest level, and are now caught wrongly or rightly by the betrayal of the trust placed in them and their acts of transgression. For some of them, I refuse to stir the stinking mire of the painful events of 06 April 1984, but how to prevent, to the content of “the fifth letter,” not remembering this sad time in the history of our country whereby some people wanted to shorten the term of the President of the Republic (already) by chasing from power by violence. Will it start?
I sincerely hope that the people of Cameroon who is invited to this disastrous plan is not fooled and will not serve those short scales because those wanted for justice want to remain mute to transform selves overnight into saviors of Cameroon. Change is already under Paul Biya, it must continue to improve and accelerate: that is what Cameroonians are doing, what they are waiting and what they intend to do.
By Gregore Owona: Deputy Secretary General of the Central Committee of the CPDM

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

Press Censorship Hits Bamenda as Press Panel is Ban

The most cherished and popular CRTV Bamenda radio programme “Press Panel” has gone incommotus on air weaves without any explanations from the management of CRTV Bamenda.  As listeners of Press Panel continue to ask rhetorical questions confidential sources hinted that there has been a lot of arm twisting among CRTV staff to hock wing the programme.  More so, other sources say some Bamenda elite and politicians had met CRTV General Manager to complain that the programme was attacking personalities. However we gathered that the arm twisting and slanders is certainly what has killed the programme. More so, our sources hinted that some CRTV journalists started complaining why and how the most admired radio programme is anchored by Colday Olivier who is actually on “secondment” with Elections Cameroon. It is the same blackmail that ignited management to ban another popular programme "Red Carpet" which was anchored by the same Colday Olivier. Since blackmail as it has been proven is a weapon of the weak and sells like apes for nuts at CRTV, management finally succumbed to the intrigues and in the final analysis, Press Panel is thereof transformed into a sinkhole for character assassination. Accordingly, claims that some politicians complained to CRTV hierarchy that Press Panel was out to settle scores have been proven baseless and unfounded. But those who always seek for public notice were on tree tops and in bars hitting the chest how they have succeeded in sending the most cherished radio porgramme in Bamenda to the slaughter house.  Notwithstanding, we were hinted that some radio stations in Bamenda are scrambling to host Press panelists. Besides that confidential sources also hinted that CRTV Bamenda management is by now contemplating on proposing a new anchor for the programme. An offer which our source hinted will be rejected by panelists giving that when gossips inherits the truth, there is bound to be chaos. From all indications, the voices of the Critical Mind, American Boy, The Philosopher, The English Man and the Moderator may likely greet the Bamenda population from a different radio station with the same veracity and professionalism touch.

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

Uncertainty at ELECAM as German NGOs, Media Pressurize Own Parliament to Stop G&D Contract for Corrupt Practice

 

The German Company, Giesecke und Devrient G&D that won the contract valued at FCFA 7.8 billion to do biometric recompilation of the electoral register in Cameroon last year and the contract was signed on April 18, 2011 is reported on heat back home. German media organs like the Stuttgarter Zeitung and some civil society organizations like the German Transparency International have called on the German Parliament to investigate into the deal between Elections Cameroon and G & D. As such, doubts have been emitted as the ongoing recompilation process kick-started at a snail pace. Having issued a decision giving the calendar and all the necessary information that recompilation will kick-start nationwide soon, ELECAM now faces the unknown for lack of kits.

According to information gathered some companies that tendered for the contract to do biometric recompilation of the electoral register and were all rejected have decided to unveil the maneuvers that led to the selection of G&D. The German media and Transparency International have all criticized the choice of the German firm arguing that something transpired during selection.

It was however strange that a company that did not even merit a place on the shortlist ended up winning the contract to supplier biometric equipments, they argued. German newspapers and NGOs are reported to be lobbying on the German Parliament to block the deal. The Germans lobbyists are arguing that the company that won the contract was never listed and have also casted doubts on the quality of material to be produced. In Germany, it is alleged G&D is not specialized in the production of materials for election rather the company specializes in production bank notes and bank cards. More so the turn-around to select a company that was not shortlisted we gathered was due to pressure from the Presidency of the Republic after the arrival on April 15, 2012 of the German Parliamentary Secretary of State in the Federal Ministry of Economy and Technology, Mr Ernst Burgdacher, who was accompanied by Mr Kung, the Vice President of G&D. Whether Mr. Ernst Burgdacher who met President Biya played a fast one to negotiate for the contract remains another issue that the German lobbyists have taken steps to reveal to Parliament.

The contract which involves the supply of materials for biometric voter registration and the training of Cameroonians who would utilise the materials has been put to question in Germany and is becoming the center of controversy in Germany. Some German media and NGOs have launched an action to seek Parliament support to cancel the deal stating that the selection was not based on merit because corrupt practices entered into play. It should however be recalled that a group of local engineers and companies from France, South Africa and Canada tendered for the contract. But surprisingly, the contract was awarded to a Munich company Giesecke & Devrient (G & D), which is widely known as a manufacturer of banknotes. It is even alleged that the company selected was much more expensive than other bidders.

They are questioning how G&D that did not even originally tender for the contract emerged winner. With all the cacophony, dark clouds now loom over ELECAM as to whether all the kits will be supplied in time for recompilation to kick-start nationwide.  The process of registration biometric voter in Cameroon is currently experiencing serious difficulties, the German operator Giesecke & Devrient (G & D) not arriving yet to deliver the kits necessary for the smooth running of operations.

Three weeks after the official launching in Yaounde the process has been very slow mainly because of insufficient material, we were hinted. Sources close to Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) also confirmed allegations that “G & D is a considerable delaying in the delivery schedule of the material that was supposed to be having been received in August.”

In addition, the 1200 stock first kits delivered in September developed abnormalities in use to the point that in some areas could not make entries on the electoral lists because of the problems. At this rate, the number of seven (7) to eight (8) million expected by ELECAM during the next six months may likely be shattered. The most serious threat is the expected legislative and municipal elections may not take place especially as than the average of 50,000 could be registered per day across the country, we learn from sources.

Nonetheless at the time of signing the contract, Hans W. Kunz, vice president of Giesecke & Devrient Group, stated that “the provisions were already made in Germany,” and that they are capable of doing the job as it is defined in terms of the contract.  Insinuating that “we have a lot of experience in this field”, because “we have been in many countries for work” he cited the biometric identity card in Brazil as one of their major achievements amongst others. Yet, allegations are rife that less than 400 kits have been supplied to Elecam and with the controversy surrounding the delay in the deliverance of kits and the dissenting voices in Germany, ELECAM may not be able to carryout the exercise as expected. Further more, some Cameroonians are of the opinion that it could have been another scam like was the case with the acquisition of the Presidential plane.

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