Meet Ateh K Thomson Pepeah: The Youngest Parliamentary Candidate

Ateh K Thomson Pepeah: The Future of  Cameroon Politics

 Fai Cassian

If there is anyone who is actually demonstrating that politics is a way of life, it is Ateh K Thomson Pepeah, PAP Parliamentary candidate for Bamenda/ Bali. Born on June 6, 1986 in Mezam Division of the North West Region, Ateh K Thomson is the youngest candidate in the upcoming Municipal/Legislative elections. Commentators have averred that the young dynamic rising politician is an icing youth who has exceptionally distinguished himself as an extraordinary politician. If there is any candidate in Mezam that the SDF fears most, it is Ateh.  Ateh K Thomson’s trappings in leadership positions make him a fit, Expressionists have confirmed. The very school of thought holds that his candidature should not be neglected because since politics is the art of the impossible, PAP’s candidate for Bamenda-Bali could spring surprises. Although Ateh is still very young, he is one of the rarest candidates who has been questioning government actions. Talking to this reporter in Bamenda ahead of Sunday’s official opening of political campaigns, Ateh K Thomson said the reasons that pushed him to run for Parliament are multi-dimensional. Accordingly, he revealed that the pivotal reason is to vote better laws including the complete revision of the supreme law- the constitution as well as enable him to better control government actions. Harping on how his candidature is one of hope and seeks to inspire future leaders, Ateh added that “it is no doubt that after so many years, Cameroon’s democratic process is still creeping”, and there is the need for it to grow stronger. This he said can only be effective if youths take part in politics or have their voice heard. He added that there is need for Cameroonians to reflect over the present politico and socio-cultural diversity and this could only be done when youths participate in politics. To Ateh, there is an urgent need to carryout educational reforms that would meet the 21^st century challenges job market and the digital world.

The Pacesetter for Youths

In his arguments, why it is primordial for youths to take part in decisions making by voting, protecting their votes from the hawks, Ateh Thomson said that youths have greater stakes than the elders given that the future belongs to them. That tomorrow, he emphasized begins with the upcoming September 30, 2013 Municipal/Legislative elections in Cameroon. “Our tomorrow is Now”, he added. The said the need therefore for broader youth participation in political and electoral process is unquestionable. Accordingly, he also reiterated that Cameroon is increasingly becoming like the pre-Gorbatchev Soviet Union whose entire leadership is made up the infirm, senile and walking dead of the politbureau. A situation which he said has kept the gerontocracy to effectively succeed to maintain a firm grip on the power, and systematically side-stepped the youth in critical policy and decision making process.

When quiz why at his age he decided to enter into active politics, Ateh revealed that it is about transforming the mindset of youths, “ a youthful parliamentary bid such as mind would resuscitate youths’ interest in politics”, he said.

It should be noted that Ateh K Thomson though very young is rich in expedients when it comes to politics. He has been the Organizing Secretary of the People’s Action Party-PAP, Member of the Council of the Wise of PAP, and co-founder of Cameroon Youth for Change.

His leadership qualities could be traced when he was student leader, University of Buea Student Union-UBSU where he held the position of Deputy President. He was also the President of University of Buea Economic Society and chairperson of University of Buea Social and Management Postgraduate Student Association and student representative of the Student Representative Council, etc. Besides, he holds a Masters Degree in Political Economics from the University of Buea after haven obtained a Bachelor of Science in economics. Ateh K Thomson is a candidate to watch closely in the North West Region. 

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

Back to School: Bamenda I CPDM Extends Hand of Fellowship to Pupils

 FC Junior

The team headed by the Acting CPDM Section President for Bamenda I, Tala Yadji El-Baba visited nursery and primary schools of that municipal to extend a hand of fellowship to pupils. From Abangoh through Ntoh to Ntaafi, the CPDM bigwigs of Bamenda I reached out to over 25 schools and about 3500 pupils with exercise books.  Talking to this report, Tala Yadji El-Baba said that at the end of the excise, they intend to reach-out to all the schools in the Sub Division and to all the pupils. “The idea is the support the parent and that each child should have atleast 3 exercise books”, he stated. To Tala Yadji, it is not because elections are near but a routine exercise they have been doing. The support to schools he said has come to stay and would go a long way to sustain the education of the kids. He said his party’s support in term of books is the best thing the CPDM can offer to children reasons why (they) the CPDM party militants consider the act of giving support to pupils at back to school as primordial.

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

“Kaduna Mafia” Crumbles as North West Fons Union Disowns Fon Teche

Fai Cassian

The North West Fons Union-NOWEFU a one time vibrant association has finally gone incomatoes. The Council of Elders of NOWEFU has finally taken the bull by the horns after the unprecedented precarious situation that took North West into the doldrums. After the crisis meeting at the Mankon Fon’s palace, Fon Chafah Isaac, former President of NOWEFU now Secretary General of Cameroon Traditional Rulers Forum and the present President of NOWEFU Senator Fon Teche Njei are now strange bedmates. Fon Chafah and Fon Teche who had claimed supremacy as power brokers and ring leaders of “Kaduna mafia” are at loggerhead over another unknown and unhidden issue as Fon Chafah has chosen the side of truth. This is indicative that the North West Fons Union has finally landed itself in the gutter given that all attempts by North West Governor to broker for peace could not yeild any fruits.  

Last September 5, 2013, meeting by the Council of Elders made up of Fon Angwafo III of Mankon, Fon Senator Dr. Ganyongha III OF Bali, Fon Abumbi II of Bali, Fon Selhm Mbinglo of Nso, Fon VINCENT Yuh of Kom, Fon Chafah Isaac of Bangolang, Fon Ndofoa Zofoa of Babungo, Fon Anneng Francis of Bafmen and ten others  ended up with a communiqué in which they observed that:

·         There has been a shameful marketing of traditional titles and values of the North West people, spearheaded by the incumbent President of NOWEFU Chief Teche Njei of Ngyen Muwa, which should stop with immediate effect;

·         There have been several attempts by Chief Teche Njei of Ngyen Muwa to marginalize Paramount and First Class Fons, including prominent fons of NOWEFU in the NOWEFU-decision making process affecting the North West Region and its people;

·         The lack of transparency and accountability of funds collected over the national territory in the name of NOWEFU.

What is however very interesting in the crisis that NOWEFU has been torn into pieces as its President Fon Teche Njei who was formerly known as the fon of Ngyen Muwa is being described as a chief not fon by as colleagues. More so the fons went further to state that the tradition of the North West “is being damaged by Chief Teche Njei”.  Determined to maintain the dignity which has been robbed in the mud, they (Council of Elders) unanimously decided as follows:

·         All traditional titles awarded under shameful doubtful circumstances by Chief Teche Njei and his click are questionable and shall be subjected to thorough review by the General Assembly of the North West Fons’ Union;

·         The further marketing of traditional titles that contributes to the degradation of the North West culture and tradition should stop with immediate effect;

·         Request the chairman of the NOWEFU Constitutional review committee, the Paramount fon of Bafut, to co-opt the Council of Elders in the preparation of a revised constitution to be presented to the General Assembly;

·         Call on all Fons of the North West Region to remain calm until a General Assembly is convened;

·         Expressed total satisfaction to the election of Niat Njifenji Marcel as the President of the Pioneer Senate of Cameroon;

·         Greatly appreciates the activities of the Government under the leadership of President Paul Biya, with Mr. Philemon Yang as Prime Minister, Head of Government;

·         Finally, reaffirmed our unflinching support to President Paul Biya, Head of state, National Chairman of the CPDM and Fon of Fons.

Popular opinion in the North West is aghast that the Council of Elders has acted very late after NOWEFU has been destroyed. Yet confidential sources hinted us that what is tearing NOWFU apart is money.  More so, it is alleged that some of the fons even exchanged blows weeks ago in Yaounde after Fon Teche outsmarted them. According to the hint, the fons had travelled from Bamenda to Yaounde to hand another royal stool to the Secretary General of the Presidency, and while in Yaounde, they were outsmarted by NOWEFU President who carryout the handing over with some few fons and pocketed the gombo. Sources say even Achidi Achu, Fon Teche’s best companion was also outwitted in the deal. Rumours abound that Achidi Achu and other fons after discovering that they were outsmarted by Fon Teche drove to the Presidency but were not allowed to get in. They were, according what we gathered refused entering to meet fons Teche and some few pocketed fons. Yet, Achidi Achu has also been cautioned to stay off any affairs of NOWEFU. However, FON Teche has denounced the communiqué adding that the Council of Elders doesn’t have any place in the constitution of NOWEFU. Notwithstanding, a classified source hinted this reporter that all titles given out by Fon Teche have been suspended and that an extraordinary General Assembly will be convened to pass a vote of no confidence on Fon Teche.  In a desperate move, Fon Teche our source hinted accosted Ntumfor Nico Halle but the later was mute over the issue given he was the first victim of the “Kaduna Mafia”. This is however indicative given that it his ignited the collapse of the so-called "kaduna mafia" as it leader Fon Chafah and Fon Teche have fallen apart.

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

Killing the Press in Cameroon: Communication Council Suspends Media Outlets Again

A release from the National Communication read yesterday over the national station-CRTV has taken media practitioners in Cameroon aback. Two Authoritative English language Newspaper have been suspended while one has been called to order. The Guardian Post Newspaper and its Publisher Ngah Christian Mbipgo were slammed a two months suspension while Chronicle Newspaper and its Publisher Eric Motumo were also slammed a three months suspension. The Watch Dog Newspaper and its Publisher, Dotta Ezikiel were warned. Public opinion in Aglophone towns are diversified over the issue. A school of thought holds that the suspensions are the handiwork of politicians while other fear that it is a plan to kill the English Language Newspapers in Cameroon. Even though the Communique specifies that the decisions were due to unorthodox practices, fears abound that it is a camouflage given that in order to hang a dog, it is always given a bad name. This is so because the politicians who felt that their plans to rig elections could be frustrated by these newspaper launched the action. The politicians we gathered are ministers and even some people who always claim they brought freedom of speech to Cameroon (more details next)

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

Newspaper Editor Detained for Investigating Election Irregularities

 By Kidie Devoe

Gwain Colbert Fulai: Paying the price of investigative journalism

A Bamenda based journalist and promoter of the Bamenda Human Rights Films and Arts Festival was picked up by police for investigating into elections irregularities. Colbert Gwain, Editor of the Colbert Factor was illegally arrested while on the field investigating allegations that some politicians were buying voters’ cards in Bamenda. Talking to this reporter from police custody, Colbert Gwain said he was picked up without a warrant of arrest from the State Counsel for Mezam or the Attorney General of the North West Region. He said he was out to investigate allegations that some people were collecting cards for others and that they were guys moving around with more than 25 cards distributing them in violation of the law. He said that he personally witnessed some people collecting voters’ cards for other. “When I saw it I immediately drew the attention of the ELECAM agent”, adding that he felt so embarrassed that the agents was acting against the instruction of ELECAM boss Fonkam Azu’u. The SDF it should be noted had earlier warned that anyone carrying voters’ cards that does not belong to him/her would be dealt with accordingly. SDF Communication Officer Anembom Munjo is quoted to have said that some politicians were promising 2000 FCFA each to buy SDF ballots. Journalists in Bamenda are scared as ELECAM and police are intimidating journalists. The said journalist who has been investigating a story entitled:’ Claims of Voter’s Card Buying Stirs New Controversy Ahead of September 30 Twin Elections’ as part of his research paper in fulfillment of an online course on ‘Data-Driven Journalism from the University of Americas is still in police custody and many already fear for his life as many have suffered the same fate in the past years. The arrest of the Editor Colbert Gwain has re-kindled interest in journalists across the country who have witnessed similar patterns in election malpractices.   The issue of voters’ cards being handed to individuals to share is not new as allegations abound. A similar case of voters’ cards handed to individuals to share surfaced in Nkambe where dozens of voters’ cards were handed to Dr. Fonkam as proof in a meeting at the community hall.  It should be recalled that the story of Bibi Ngota is still fresh in the minds of journalists. An atmosphere of uncertainty now looms in the North West Region ahead of the September 30 Municipal/Legislative Elections.

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

Did over 2000 Militants Decamp into the CPDM?

Kargong Eric Tabah alias Titanic

It is alleged that over 2000 SDF militants decamped in Ndu to join the ruling CPDM party. According to the statistics voiced out, the following figures were registered: Jirt-158, Fuh-180, Mbipgo-350, Kakar-303, Ndu Central (comprising of drivers union, achabas’ union where their presidents are on the list of CPDM councilors)-520, Njimkang (Naomi Nfor’s village)-85, Njipluh (Naomi Nfor’s residential area)-320, Ngarum-296, Mbah-215, Nseh-45, Mbiyeh-95 and finally Luh 300. Whether these figures are true or fabricated remains another mystery but since these carpets are meant to be cross, a school of thought holds that carpet crossing is also legendary in politics and a way to fight poverty. Yet sources from ELECAM office indicates that at Mbah only 155 voters registered for the upcoming elections, meaning that something is being done unfairly somewhere. Our investigation further revealed that Luh has only 300 registered voters etc etc. More so, bookmakers say crossing the carpet is public while casting a vote is secret, implicitly the unexpected usually triumphs. In a related story, the District Chairman for Ndu, Eric Ngabah has issued a release calling on the population to shy away from those moving around in search of votes to buy. He further warned that anyone doing so is doing it at his or her own risk and act which he says is punishable by law. (More in our net edition)

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

DO Bars SDF, CPDM Campaign Launching at the Grandstand

Haruna Mohammadou

 It is now set that neither the Social Democratic Front-SDF nor the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement-CPDM will launch its campaigns for the September 30, 2013 Twin Elections at the Nkambe Grandstand. The decision to bar the two political parties was taken by the Divisional Officer for Nkambe, Abba Abdouram on September 2, 2013 in a crisis meeting with local party officials. The DO for Nkambe allegedly took the decision after both political parties had chosen September 14  to launch their campaigns at the Nkambe Grandstand. According to classified sources, the decision by DO to bar the two political parties from using the Grandstand on September 14 is intended to avoid another clash. It should be recalled that during the last Presidential Elections, CPDM and SDF militants clashed at the Nkambe Grandstand. The clash almost generated into a general fight as tempers flared and hands went above the shoulders. Of late, another incident took place at Wat market square whereby Mary Awudu and Ngwayi Ivo were assaulted. With political gangsterism gaining grounds in Nkambe, the administration for Donga Mantung Division we gathered is aware of the stakes and has always been smart a avoid an uncomfortable scenario. Hints as to Prime Minister Yang Philemon would address CPDM militants at the Fon Jabfu Ibrahim Nfor Grandstand have come to null. More, Hon. Awudu Mbaya and Co. may only wait for the last day to stage another political propaganda. At Press time, information as to whether the two political parties have selected different sites for the launching has not reached us yet. However, the unknown yet not hidden fact is that no political party shall launch it campaign on September 14 at the Nkambe Grandstand.  Talking to this reporter, Mangoh Jones Tanko said that since the SDF submitted the first declaration, they (SDF) should be considered. He added that in as much as the SDF is the ruling party in Nkambe and they are the ones controlling the grandstand, it is out of question for the SDF to be barred from using a grandstand they manage.

Courtesy of Donga Mantung Eye No 30

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

Aborted Election Splits WISU

* Political Peddlers Accused 

* Adhoc Committee Formed Amidst boycott

* SDO Recommends extraordinary General Assembly by December

The Wimbum Students Union, a one-time vibrant student body is wallowing in the gutter and in self-skirmishes. It has become a sinkhole for character assassination and fertile ground for political propaganda. Those who took the pains to attend the 34th Annual Convention of WISU at Taku village went home more confused than when they were going. This is so because expectations that a new executive was to be put in place came to null. It is alleged that the body put in place to manage elections was incompetent to the point that elections were postponed. Even though a communiqué by the Interim General President indicates that the reason to postpone elections was due to the fact that the constitution has to be amended, another school of thought holds that there were flimsy excuses. However, the Interim President sources say the outgoing President was also ready to hand over power yet was handicapped by the fact that the 2/3 majority as stipulated in the constitution be met up given that majority of those who raised hell were conspicuously absent. Another school of thought holds that they simply boycotted the elections. The question which abound is on the whereabouts of the 350 delegates who allegedly attended the convention. It is alleged that WISU is already in factions. This is confirmed by the fact that the Divisional Officer for Ndu stepped in to concert with them before an ad hoc Committee was put in place while waiting for the 2014 Elective Convention in Bongom. The question as to whether Nfor Dieudonne Nkeh, outgoing General President now Interim General President masterminded the saga remains another mystery. Yet, rumours were circulated that he (Nfor Dieudonne) had absconded but were faulty. Apart from the fact that plans are underway to ax the constitution for a list system to be functional from next year, in-house sources hinted Donga Mantung Eye that Nfor Dieudonne’s trappings are laudable but could be erased by the obnoxious plans to manipulate the constitution.  He is quoted to have lobbied and obtained support to fund WISU activities given that during the convention WISU  dished out three generators to GHS Taku, GSS Njilah and GSS Binka apart from the trophies and prizes handed out to teams.
One of the things that recently sparked controversy is the manner at which Mbum politicians want to penetrate the student body for votes. The Taku Convention is a case in point as political peddlers invaded the convention. The CPDM bigwigs are reported to have stormed the convention in party outfit in defiance to President Biya’s advice that politics should be for politicians and schools for pupils and studens. The SDO for Donga Mantung Division is quoted to have proposed that elections should be organized by December this year to rescue WISU from collapsing.

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

Senator Jikong’s Homecoming Sparks Controversy

 A forth night ago, HRH Senator Jikong Stephen Yeriwa who doubles as the fon of Jato village staged his homecoming in Nwa and not Nkambe, the Divisional headquarters as it has being the case with other senators. Senator Jikong, it is alleged smuggled himself to Nwa. This is so because like in other places where other Senators have always accompanied their colleagues at homecoming, the Senator for Donga Mantung tiptoed into Nwa where he was received by a tiny group of people. Implicitly, sources say the event was heavily boycotted and that even the god’s of Nwa were seemingly aghast with the senator.  Donga Mantung councilors we gathered are wondering whether they made the right choice. Many continue to question whether his alternate Ngi Christopher wasn’t the better choice, yet Senator Jikong unexpectedly replaced Ngi Christopher at the last minutes. It is even alleged that the boycott is link to the in-house wrangling that is rocking the CPDM in Nwa. Talking to this reporter on ground of animosity, one CPDM bigwig acknowledged that the heavy downpour can never be interpreted as a blessing. ‘Showers of blessings are very different from the heavy downpour we witnessed in Nwa on this day”, he concluded.  The heavy downpour of the rain was indicative to the fact that there was anger in the wilderness. CPDM militants of Nkambe, Ndu, Misaje and Ako are also aghast with their Senator given that he also ignored them during his homecoming. However, unconfirmed sources say HRHR Senator Jikong is planning to stage a separate homecoming in Ako/Misaje. The question as to whether Nkambe and Ndu CPDM have been barred from seeing him abound high. 

Courtesy of Donga Mantung Eye No 30

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Kumbo-Nkambe Stretch of the Ring Road: Calamity, Calamity, Calamity!!

 Fai Cassian

 I have often heard people say that it is forbidden to make a critical judgment analysis on the neglect of the stretch of the Ring Road from Kumbo-Misaje via Nkambe and that making such a critical judgment is like writing satanic verses that lead to divine sentence. But let the word go forth from this time and medium to friends and enemies of progress alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation that will talk than die in silence.
The transport fare Ndu-Nkambe sky-rocketed this week from 2000 FCFA to 4000, Nkambe-Bamenda from 5000 FCFA to 7000 FCFA. Yet cars are now moving anti-clock wise, that is from Bamenda through Bafut, down to Wum passing through Nyos to Misaje before getting to Nkambe... Strange Indeed!!
Traveling from Kumbo to any part of Donga Mantung Division is not just a nightmare but demands a week of serious fasting and prayer because you never know when you will get to your destination. However, anyone who would maladroitly sit on the fence to declare that the stretch of road from Kumbo to Donga Mantung is not a necessity or a priority should be considered as being in a state of sin. Even though there is a statement in the Bible which states that people should not pass round for judges on others, I believe it is often quoted out of context because the Bible still tells us that people should be judged if their acts are injurious. I am aware that this critical judgment analysis is badly needed. It is imperative because the people of Donga Mantung are in tears again and the bells of anguish are being heard signaling that Donga Mantung Division may cease to exist in the map of this country. I am also aware that this bit will offset many people but it is a fact. Even so, who is even going to twist my arm for speaking the truth? Is it not a right for the people of Donga Mantung to have a good access road and even enjoy more as a border Division? It pains and kills my imagination as well as the picture post-card I got from my father that they decided to unite with La Republique because of what was happening up the road. 52 years after reunification the situation of this road is more pathetic than before. When I look across the river and see the road network, I cry for my Division. I wish I could put down on paper the picture that comes to me from the restrained of anger. I need not dwell upon the authenticated horrors of the Nazi internment camps and death chambers for Jews. That is tragic but a kind of insane horror like our ring road. The essence of tragedy is not the doing of evil by evil men but the doing of evil by good men, out of weakness, indecision, sloth, inability to act in accordance with what they know to be right. The ring road, until its termination, presents the classic existential argument about the existence of God or a higher power: if he did and does exist, then the only natural choice is to become a disciple; but if he did not, and there is no afterlife, then life is meaningless outside the present moment for the people of Donga Mantung given that wise people have often said and proven that where the road passes, development follows. Hence, there is nothing to be done except to live every moment without a thought to the next but look only to God Almighty for Divine Intervention. The state of nature of the Ring Road has made Donga Mantung an Island on land. Today, thoughts and feelings are more and more separated from each other, and this separation leads either to an almost schizophrenic intellectualism or to a neurotic, irrational emotionalism. Only if emotions and reason are brought together can man function in a way which makes life interesting and hence creates the possibility of a productive life. To put it briefly, what Donga Mantung people need is not good speeches, not UFO councilors, not politics of hatred but politicians with character and conscience. In fact, a breed of politicians who would sit on one table to create the Donga Mantung Intelligensia (forgetting about “C” or “S” dogma to make life more meaningful and bring back humanity from the wilderness closer to the people. God bless Donga Mantung Div.

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

Pre polls-day electoral injustice of Cameroon

 Democrats now have to grapple with the sour fact that ahead of the 30 September 2013 polls for the twin parliament and council elections in Cameroon, incumbent president Biya’s party, CPDM, is assured already of running uncontested in just so many constituencies despite circa 300 political parties in existence.

            Of the 360 councils in the country, the CPDM is running alone in 120 - sanctioned by the Supreme Court perpetually acting in place of the constitutional council. Of the 180 parliament seats, CPDM has already 31 before the vote. The main opposition - my party the SDF and others are besieged with myriad intrigues targeted to give CPDM a crushing advantage.  The ruling party in Cameroon is not noticeably different from government – she has free access to the public coffers in running her affairs to the detriment of not only adversaries but the entire nation’s economy: When state ministers, directors, vice chancellors of public universities,  and other civil servants abandon their assignments, driven in public vehicles, for CPDM campaigns and meetings - it is undue exploitation of the commons by one political party; near monopoly of state owned press - radio, TV, and newspapers by CPDM is unwarranted exploitation which embarrasses other Cameroonians . In a timid financial system like ours, it is quite difficult for ordinary opposition citizens to individually raise fifty thousand and one million CFA francs for the council and parliamentary elections respectively as caution fees. Further, the greatest system stumbling block here is the arbitrary disqualification of opposition candidates’ documents for indicated faults by CPDM partisan court judges and elections body. Hence the ruling party unjust pre election victories!

The powers that be, in their characteristic assumed-panacea of quelling eventual cheating-orchestrated anger and explosion-likelihood, are currently in the field preaching “Peace before, during and after the elections”. They quote sections of the electoral code which emphasize orderly campaigns and other electoral chores.  Its no secrete that electoral code like other governance instruments including the constitution of this country has been controversially tailored to benefit the ruling party (CPDM - formerly CNU which has been ruling since independence for over 50 years now) in violation of the wishes of majority Cameroonians – the supposed supreme law of the state, the constitution was drawn giving too much authority to the president (the executive) – no separation of powers in governance exist here! Cameroonians in their generality have always expressed total disgust for this to no avail, yet many times has the constitution been amended at the instance of the executive. The presidential tenure was recently extended from five to seven years. It was again made limitless from the hitherto maximum of two terms for an individual. In the modification of the electoral code, deaf ears were paid to popular calls for introduction of the second round of voting where no clear winner emerges in the first round. The shunning of the single ballot paper which amongst other advantages prevents vote buying by unscrupulous politicians from luring voters to present the ballot papers of their opponents after Voting them  (the unscrupulous politicians) for financial rewards which negatively affect democracy. The CPDM ruling government’s regular downplay of popular concerns in her governance style prerequisites clearly deadly-uprising! In 2007 for example, the Biya regime used various manipulative methods including the CPDM orientated elections body to secure for her, a victory of above 70 percent in that years twin legislative and municipal elections. The rest of the opposition including the truly grass root nation-wide SDF was made to share the remnants. The seeming tranquility there after was to be short-lived when just in February 2008, a violent hunger, fuel-hike and bad governance strike erupted. Death toll and devastation to the national economy was high, betraying the huge popularity the regime had just feigned in the crushing polls win. It is thus distinctly clear that it is the CPDM that has inbuilt violations to the present laws of Cameroon - her intransigence to advice in formulating national regulations – so any call for peace by the powers that be now without realistic changes on present laws and governance is stupid and serves no practical purpose. Justice, transparent fair and acceptable elections and good governance, history shows is a necessity for peace and progress.

            However, one thing is universally certain – there is no bad or ugly situation which can not be corrected. Bill Clinton in his US-president years said of our country: “There is nothing wrong with Cameroon that can not be corrected”. If only we start before this 30 September 2013 polls and be iconoclastically fair transparent and introduce in-depth generally accepted reforms and humane rational governance, then Cameroon will be on the right path to emancipation from want and underdevelopment. Anything short of this will be an open invitation to continuous stagnation and trouble.

                                                            God guide Cameroon

                        Felix Teche Nyamusa, 2018 Cameroon Presidential Hopeful

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

UN Expert on Minority Issues to Visit Cameroon

United Nations Independent Expert on minority issues, Rita Izsák, will visit Cameroon from 2 to 11 September 2013 to examine the human rights situation of different ethnic, linguistic and religious minorities and travel to different localities to meet directly with minority communities. She is also scheduled to hold high-level meetings with Government officials.

“I want to learn about the legislation, policies and practices that Cameroon has in place to protect minority rights and ensure equality and non-discrimination for all of its peoples in all aspects of society,” Ms. Izsák said.

“Cameroon has a rich diversity of ethnic, religious and linguistic groups throughout the country and this visit provides a unique opportunity for me to learn about their situations from a variety of actors on the ground, including Government representatives and, importantly, members of different communities themselves,” the human rights expert noted.

Ms. Izsák, who visits the country at the invitation of the Government, will begin her visit in the national capital, Yaoundé, before travelling to different regions, including the North West, South and Far North regions. She will meet with senior Government officials at the national and regional levels, representatives of non-governmental organizations, community members, academics, and others working in the field of minority issues, social inclusion and promotion of equality and non-discrimination.

This is the first information-gathering visit to Cameroon by an independent expert designated by the UN Human Rights Council to consider minority issues. Under her UN mandate, Ms. Izsák is required to promote implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities* and to identify challenges as well as positive practices with regard to minority issues.

Following her visit, the Independent Expert will present a report containing her findings and recommendations to the United Nations Human Rights Council.
Ms. Izsák will issue a statement to the media and hold a press conference in Yaoundé upon conclusion of her visit on Wednesday 11 September 2013.

Rita Izsák was appointed as Independent Expert on minority issues by the Human Rights Council in June 2011 and took up her functions on 01 August 2011. As Independent Expert, she is independent from any government or organization and serves in her individual capacity. Learn more:
http://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Minorities/IExpert/Pages/IEminorityissuesIndex.aspx

(*) Check the UN Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities:http://www.ohchr.org/EN/ProfessionalInterest/Pages/Minorities.aspx

UN Human Rights, Country page – Cameroon: http://www.ohchr.org/EN/Countries/AfricaRegion/Pages/CMIndex.aspx

For further information and media inquiries, please contact:
In Yaoundé (during the visit): Kiven Timothy Franklin Fonyuy (+237 22 50 58 03 / 79 71 05 94 / tfonyuy@ohchr.org).
In Geneva (before and after the visit): Graham Fox (+41 22 917 9640 / gfox@ohchr.org) or write to minorityissues@ohchr.org

For media inquiries related to other UN independent experts: dong
Xabier Celaya, UN Human Rights – Media Unit (+ 41 22 917 9383 / xcelaya@ohchr.org)

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

September 30 Twin Election: Opinion Puts SDF 26 Councils, CPDM 6

By Cassiamandou
CPDM on the Bumpy Road in NW
As September 30, 2013 approaches, a latest opinion poll in the North West Region puts the Social Democratic Front-SDF ahead of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement-CPDM. Political analysts on the other hand have opined that the CPDM will register a serious crash in Wum, Zhoa, Njikwa, Andek, Santa, Bali, Nwa, Ndop, Jakiri, Mbiame, Mbengwi, Nkor and Balikumbat council areas. This is so because of the poor output of the mayors as well as the party wrangling that has divided CPDM militants after the publication of the final list of aspiring councilors. Implicitly, the SDF will retain the Nkambe, Ndu, Belo, Njinikom, Fundong, Bamenda I, II & III, Bafut, Tubah, Nkum, Kumbo, Babessi council areas while the CPDM will triumph in, Bum, Misaje, Ako, Furu-awa, Widikum and Benakuma council areas.
Wum(Dinghabong Anthony versus Buh Sule)
The case of Wum council is so glaring given the poor output of Mayor Njukwe Charles and besides that he has been a perpetual absentee mayor. Popular opinion in Wum puts the SDF on a crushing win. Young and dynamic Dinghabong Anthony heads the CPDM list of 25 councilors while on the other side, it is Buh Sule who is heading SDF list. Yet Njukwe Charles doesn’t feature among the 25 selected CPDM councilors.
Zhoa (Embih Mathilda versus Geh Cyprian Ngum)
Zhoa Council on the other hand is also expected to sink with Hon. Nji Fidelis. More so, the uncompleted Bafmen water project further complicates things for the CPDM party. The CPDM list headed by Embih Mathilda will face SDF list headed by Geh Cyprian Ngum, yet popular opinion in Zhoa favours the SDF list. It should be noted that Zhoa Council has 35 councilors.
Njikwa (Wandum Bernard versus Abianji Lucas)
The mayor of Njikwa for example is little known and his results at the helm of the council have not been cheering. It is alleged that the mayor’s signature was suspended before the decision from MINATD suspending mayor’s signatures. Njikwa council for the past months was managed by the Divisional Officer. The former mayor not featuring on the list of 25 councilors is indicative. Popular opinion in Njikwa puts the SDF on the side of victory.
Andek( Awetua Samuel versus Amboufei Dianna)
Aghogho Johnny has been CPDM mayor for Andek for the past 6 years or so but yet his trappings have been doubted. He has been described as an absentee mayor and more so he was wrapped in the communal stamps scandal. Arrested, detained and later released public opinion indicates that the SDF will bank on these lapses to grab the 25 seats. The fact that the former mayor’s name doesn’t feature on the list of 25 councilors is indicative of an end of reign for the CPDM. 
Santa (Clement Wankie versus Kan Elroy, versus Achu Mandi)
In 2007, the CPDM partook in the sharing of the Santa Council. This was thanks to the efforts of Zachuess Forjindam and JB Ndeh. Forjindam it should be noted bankrolled all the campaigns for the CPDM in 2007. With his arrest and detention, the chips are down for the CPDM. JB Ndeh alone cannot stand the weight of the SDF even though Kan Elroy is CPDM council list. Three political parties, SDF, CPDM and NUDP will be contesting for the 41 available seats. Whether the Santa council would be shared as was the case in 2007 has been aborted by popular opinion.
Bali (Wandum Bunga versus Galiba Joseph, versus Atsaa Godlove)
 Raymond Nwayalla is the mayor of Bali Council, he was elected on July 27, 2007 given that SDF list was disqualified. With the SDF list accepted for the upcoming elections, three political parties will be competing for the 35 seats in Bali Council. Raymond Nwayalla has been up to the task even though his name doesn’t feature on the CPDM list yet trendy judgment holds that the CPDM will be crushed.
Nwa( Dr. Ngomfe versus Anthony Awunte)
In 2007, the CPDM won the Nwa council (41 seats). Yakabong John was elected mayor. He latter died and Dr. Ngomfe Loma David was elected to complete his term of office. Ngomfe’s trappings have been appreciated yet the CPDM is hunted by its own shadow. Public opinion in Nwa is favourable for the SDF as far as the council is concern. The CPDM may likely be beaten but will retain parliamentary seat especially as Mbem is likely to vote SDF for the council.
Ndop (Yah Cecilia versus Mero Nfuh)
In 2007, the CPDM won Ndop council (41 seats) thanks to the Yoyo-Tabali internal wrangling. Yet popular opinion in Ndop holds that the output of Ntoh Daniel as mayor has been mediocre. More so, the fact that Ntoh Daniel was wrapped in the communal stamp scandal whereby he was arrested and detained before was released further complicate election matters for the CPDM. The fact that CPDM militants are actually operating in diverse ranks has worsen the situation.
Jakiri (Jaff Sylvenus versus Jaff Romanus)
The CPDM won the Jakiri council thanks to the efforts deployed by late Christopher Nsahlai. With the demise of Nsahlai, the CPDM in Jakiri is like an orphan. Besides, the fact that Senator Emma Lafon and others ganged up to frustrate Hon. Wirngo’s bid to parliament has divided the CPDM into two factions. Hon. Wirngo’s loyalists have vowed to give CPDM a sanction vote thus giving the SDF the leeway to the council. Jaff Sylvenus is head of the CPDM list for Jakiri while Jaff Romanus is heading the SDF list. Jakiri council it should be noted has 35 councilors and since there are only two political parties, the possibilities of sharing are slim.
Mbiame (Fonyuy Fidelis versus Wirdzenyuy Celestine
Mbiame council has been under the CPDM yet public opinion is aghast with the mayor for being an absentee landlord. Shey Fidelis’s trappings have been underestimated by the population. Indicators are rife at that the SDF will march over by a simple majority. The CPDM for once has ignited preliminary synopsis of an imminent collapse. Even though Shey Fonyuy Fidelis is a financial guru, he may likely get a bitter lesson from Wirdzenyuy Celestine who is list leader for the SDF of 25 councilors. 
Mbengwi(Chunga Patrick versus Edena Enih, versus Fonanih Jonas)
In 2007, the Mbengwi Council was shared between the SDF, CPDM and AFP. Even though the SDF mayor Tah George was napped in the communal saga, his trappings have been applauded. With Minister Ama Muna imposing candidates in Mbengwi, the 2007 victory over Hon. PC Fonso will be far-fetched. This is so given that PC Fonso was flushed out and a vibrant female candidate catapulted. Yet three political parties will face each others in the field. Popular opinion in Mbengwi is for SDF glorious win. However, a sharing could again emerge after the poll another school of thought holds.
Nkor (Forgwei Alfred versus Bambo Pius)
Mayor Shey Kume Michael’s trappings at the helm of Nkor council have been wonderful yet the CPDM in Nkor has been auctioned to the hawks due to internal wrangling. The wrangling between the mayor and the section President may likely hand the council to the SDF on a platter of gold. Public opinion in Nkor holds that if the two could have a genuine reconciliation the CPDM may carry the day, yet another school holds that the disagreement between the two bigwigs jeopardized development project, a case in point being the construction of the Council Chamber. For CPDM to win in Nkor, they should be genuine reconciliation.
Balikumbat( Musi Eveline versus Yivah Alfred)
Balikumbat has been the bastion of the CPDM thanks to HRH Fon Doh Gah Gwanyin. The CPDM will rape the fruits of dismay as the kingpin is no more. Mayor Awasum’s involvement in the communal stamp saga has compounded issues for the CPDM opinion polls dictate. But this would be a serious challenge for Senator Dingha Ignatius and Hon. Banmi to demonstrate that they could fit in Fon Doh’s political shoes. It should be recalled that Balikumbat council has 31 seats.

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

Ebang Samuel Njumbe: Pictogram of Hard Work

 By Comfort Beri

Ebang Samuel Njumbe

One famous philosopher once wrote that “if a man could mount to Heaven and survey the mighty universe, his admiration of its beauty would be much diminished unless he had some to share in his pleasure”. This clearly indicates that life harbors a vacuum and great people can only be identified when they interact in society. In other words, many people in society are just stage decorations while those who work hard in life stage the property to excellence. In fact what keeps the world intact is trust and society is so multifaceted that we are becoming short of trustworthy people. Yet it is not a given to have trustworthy people. However, some people have been able to lead a life that is exemplary. Ebang Samuel Njumbe alias Sango is one of those persons with a prolific slate. He is a man of a specific class and stands out clear in the madding crowd. Born in Tombel of Kupe Mwanenguba, young attended his primary in Nkikih in Bangem where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate. In 1992, he moved to Saint Joseph’s Sasse College. As a young as he was, he did his best to catch up with education. Not that he was dull in book work but financially he lacked sponsorship. Haven succeeded to go to form II; he finally left Sasse because of lack money to pay school fees. To him, fate was a guide and he believed that one’s downfall can equally be the beginning of his break-through. Equally, young Njumbe had the belief that until you are once frustrated, you can never fulfill your mission on earth. He then decided to engage himself in farm work. He later got married and had three children. Having the conviction that truly there can never be a change until there is challenge, his elder brother Njumbe Martin, whom he worked in the farm to support his education at the University of Yaounde encouraged him to go back to Sasse College. In 1980, the young father of three went back to Sasse college and this time in form four. At that time his classmates had graduated from the University and were teaching in the same school. The unpaid fees he owed before leaving Sasse in 1973 were thrown off in sympathy by the principal. in complicity with some teachers, Ebang Samuel Njumbe registered the GCE Ordinary levels in four papers and finally passed in three with very good grades. He returned back to Tombel with the determination to succeed in life. Through his farm work, he raised money to set up a second hand bookshop to support desperate students and also preparing for any public service examination as a short-cut to success. Encouraged by the notion that “your destiny determines your value and even experience is what leads you to have what you need”, Njumbe Samuel in 19983 succeeded to enter the public service through a public service examination in the treasury department. After receiving training in the Ministry of Finance on public accounting and nomenclatures, he was transferred to the provincial treasury in Bamenda. He was in 1985 appointed as Chief of Bureau local councils and public establishments at the then provincial treasury in Bamenda, a post he held for three years. In 1988, Ebang Samuel Njumbe was appointed and sent to Donga Mantung Division as Chief of Service for Local Council and Public Establishments at the Divisional treasury in Nkambe, a position he held for eight years. And in 1996, he was appointed in dual capacities as the sub treasurer and municipal treasurer for Ako/ interim municipal and sub treasurer for Misaje. In 1997, he was transferred to Ngie in Momo Division in the same capacity. And on March 11, 2005, Ebang Samuel Njumbe was transferred back to Ako where he is still in service. Besides, he is the proprietor of Hotel Bakassi in Ako, Donga Mantung Division. Ebang Samuel Njumbe was voted by readers of The Eye Newspaper as the best sub Treasurer for Donga Mantung Division. In fact his life story is a lesson that teaches us that it is bad to fail but it is worst never to have tried to succeed, for failure is only an opportunity for more intelligent beginning and also it is sure that you can be a blessing if you work hard in life. Life as they say is a fleeing mystery and so too is society. And only those who get up early in the morning with a vision will succeed.


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