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The House of Chiefs and the Anglophone Dilemma

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Members of the North West Regional House of Chiefs in Bamenda have expressed their grievances regarding  marginalization  by the government. They claim that decisions affecting their community are being made without proper  consultation  with local leaders. This sentiment reflects a broader issue within the region, particularly in the context of the ongoing  Anglophone Crisis , which has seen tensions between the English-speaking regions of Cameroon and the central government. The Anglophone Crisis has been a significant factor in the discontent among the people of the Northwest Region. This conflict stems from long-standing grievances related to political and economic marginalization of the Anglophone population, which has led to calls for greater autonomy and recognition of their rights .  The chiefs' complaints highlight a feeling of exclusion from the decision-making processes that directly impact their lives and communities. The sentiment that the Hous...

CONGO: The Controversial Executions in the DRC

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In a significant and controversial move, the Congolese government announced in January 2025 the execution of  102 inmates  labeled as "urban bandits," with an additional  70 executions  planned shortly thereafter. This drastic measure is part of a broader crackdown on crime, particularly targeting armed robbery and related offenses that have plagued urban areas in the country. Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo The recent executions primarily involve individuals convicted of armed robbery. The government's actions reflect a growing concern over crime rates and public safety in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). However, this approach raises questions about the effectiveness of capital punishment as a deterrent and the underlying social issues contributing to crime, such as poverty and unemployment. While the current wave of executions focuses on urban crime, the DRC has a complex history of addressing war crimes through international courts. Notably,  B...

Bishops in Cameroon Demand Action Against Government Inaction

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Recently, bishops in Cameroon have voiced strong criticism against the government, highlighting issues of  bad governance  and the ongoing suffering of the population. During their annual meeting, they expressed deep concern over the  "continuous misery"  faced by citizens due to various crises, including civil conflict in the north west and south west region of Cameroon and also  economic hardship. The bishops went as far as to suggest that it might be  "better for the devil to rule Cameroon"  than the current regime, indicating their profound discontent with the leadership of President  Paul Biya . This statement reflects their belief that the current government has failed to address the pressing needs of the people and has contributed to the country's instability. The bishops' remarks come in the context of a nation grappling with significant challenges, including  ethnic divisions  and violence, particularly in the Anglophone regions...

A New Year’s Eve Surprise: When Zambian Police Celebrated a Little Too Hard And Release Prisoners.

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As the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, celebrations filled the air in Lusaka, Zambia. However, at the Leonard Cheelo police station, the festivities took an unexpected turn, one that would leave many scratching their heads and questioning the events of the night. In a bizarre twist,  Detective Inspector Titus Phiri  found himself at the center of an incredible story—one that involved a bit too much holiday cheer and a dramatic release of prisoners. Reports indicate that Inspector Phiri, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, made the startling decision to free  13 detainees  from their cells. According to police spokesperson  Rae Hamoonga , the incident unfolded when Inspector Phiri seized the keys from a constable. With a flourish of authority fueled by perhaps one too many celebratory drinks, he unlocked both male and female cells, instructing the bewildered detainees to step out, declaring them free to join in the New Year’s celebrations. Imagine ...

A Critical Analysis of the Discrepancies in Cameroon’s Presidential Speech

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Upon closer analysis of the speech delivered by the 92 year old president of Cameroon on the 31st December 2024, there is a significant disconnect between the president and his people. While it heavily emphasizes positive developments in security, economic growth, and social services, several areas of concern undermine the assertions made.  President Paul Biya (Cameroon) The speech touts the success of Cameroon’s security forces in combating terrorism and insurgency, particularly in the Far-North and South-West and North-West regions. However, this portrayal contrasts sharply with the persistent instability in these areas. The ongoing conflict in the Anglophone regions (North-West and South-West) remains unresolved, and human rights organizations have reported frequent abuses by government forces. While the government claims progress, the conflict continues to displace hundreds of thousands of people, with civilian casualties remaining high. Thus, the portrayal of a “stable” Camero...

The Legacy of Ayah Paul Abine: A Champion for Justice and Human Rights in Cameroon

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On December 25, 2024, Cameroon lost a prominent figure in its legal and political landscape with the passing of Ayah Paul Abine at the age of 74 in Buea. His life was marked by a steadfast commitment to justice, human rights, and democracy. However, many believe that his death was hastened by the government's actions, reflecting a troubling pattern of persecution against dissenting voices in the country. AYAH PAUL Born in 1950 in Ngali, Akwaya Subdivision in Manyu, Ayah Paul Abine emerged as a significant voice for the English-speaking community in Cameroon. He graduated from the National School of Administration and Magistracy (ENAM) in Yaoundé in 1976, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in law and politics. Initially a member of the ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM), Ayah Paul became increasingly critical of the government. He resigned from CPDM in 2011 after demanding that internal elections be conducted in the ruling CPDM party, but he was fa...

Cameroon. The Road to 2025: Cameroon’s Struggle for Democracy Amidst Political Turmoil

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Cameroon is navigating a complex political landscape as it approaches its 2025 elections. The challenges are multifaceted, particularly with the ongoing conflict in the Northwest and Southwest regions, the advanced age of the president, the electoral code favoring the ruling party, and the widespread disillusionment among the youth regarding their ability to participate in the electoral process. Conflict in the Northwest and Southwest Regions The  Anglophone crisis , which has persisted for over eight years, has led to significant instability in the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon. This conflict has resulted in: Displacement of communities : Many residents have fled their homes, and the ongoing violence has disrupted local governance and civil life. Limited access to resources : The conflict has hindered access to education, healthcare, and basic services, further complicating the electoral process in these regions. Suppression of political engagement : The atmosphere o...