By Ngembeni Wa Namaso
A Turning Point in Cameroon's so-called Anglophone Crisis
The passing of Justice Ayah Paul Abine, a figure of immense political and legal significance, serves as a solemn reminder of some of Cameroon’s unresolved sociopolitical challenges.
His public life, marked by demonstrations of integrity and a commitment to justice, can exemplify the heavy cost borne by many independent thinkers in a nation grappling with issues of trust, equity, and belonging.
More importantly, his demise may present a historic opportunity for deep, balanced reflection and I dare say, reconciliation, particularly in addressing the protracted fratricidal, so-called Anglophone Crisis.
1. Justice Ayah's Life as a Symbol
Justice Ayah's trajectory underscores the challenges faced by those who dare to show dissent in a developing, politically centralized, ethnically diverse and intellectually gifted post-independence, African society.
As a people's representative for the ruling CPDM Party, he courageously declined to support a constitutional amendment believed to have been prepared to extend a constitutional President's term; an act of principle that may have led to his extreme political ostracization and ultimate marginalization by his own.
His later detention, ostensibly for sympathizing with undesirable aspects of the so-called Anglophone problem, and later, the withholding of his pension until his passing, may symbolize the punitive measures that pundits argue can be faced by those not toeing the Party line, or overtly advocating for common justice and fairness.
His treatment reflects some unhappy aspects of the broader grievances of many English-speaking intellectuals and fair minded, informed Cameroonians, where similar perceived injustices fuel demands for greater regional autonomy and more equitable governance.
2. The so-called Anglophone Crisis: A Test of Cameroon's Unity
The so-called Anglophone Crisis, now in its eighth year, has spotlighted long-standing tensions between the predominant institution of the inherited French system of governance, in lieu of the agreed balanced approach, which requires fully applying fundamental aspects of the equally inherited Anglo-Saxon system of governance, especially as it affects the daily lives of Cameroonians who use the English language as de facto first language, as it is the case in the predominantly English-speaking regions.
Despite sincere government efforts, including the Grand National Dialogue (2019) and the institution of a Special Status for the so-called Anglophone regions, dissatisfaction remains widespread. Worse, this dissatisfaction, though strong and present, seems more suppressed today (an ominous sign for all democratic-minded persons).
These grievances range from inadequate, intentional representation in governance, such as to ensure institution of the full standards, of especially, Higher Education - in English, and local administrative systems which remain at variance with the inherited, but very real and continuing needs of the English speaking communities, especially those described as "Anglophone".
Yet, amid this turmoil, Cameroonians remain determined to live and demonstrate an enduring resolve to coexist - English speaking - French speaking, side by side, in the home, at work and everywhere.... "living together" or "le vivre ensemble"
Justice Ayah’s life and departure therefore, bring to the fore the pressing need to address these issues not as a divided, squabbling people but as one nation striving toward shared prosperity in mutual respect and recognition.
3. Signals of Change and the Role of Leadership
The current socio-political environment presents a rare moment for change.
As Government and the Military master the human aspects of the crisis better, secessionist leaders are adopting more conciliatory tones, signaling a potential thaw in hostilities.
Calls for ceasefires, respect for the Special Status, and even arrest of extremist leaders indicate a collective weariness with violence and a yearning for peace.
As Cameroon approaches the 2025 elections year, the nation's naturally aging leadership must recognize the imperative of renewal.
Leaders must think beyond personal or party hegemony and consider the legacy they leave for future generations.
Justice Ayah's story, a testament to the cost of divisive governance, should inspire senior leaders to prioritize reconciliation and inclusivity over stagnation and discord
4. A Call for Reconciliation and Unity
The path forward must be one of burying the hatchet.
Justice Ayah's passing is a poignant reminder that Cameroon’s greatest strength lies in its diversity—ecological, cultural, and human.
The so-called Anglophone regions, with their unique historical and geographical ties (especially next to Africa's biggest economy - Nigeria), represent a vital part of the nation's fabric and future prosperity.
Addressing their grievances is not merely a regional matter; it is central to national unity and strategic interests.
A comprehensive reconciliation process must involve:
Strengthening Local Governance: Empowering so-called Anglophone regions (and others, if they so desire) to manage their local affairs, particularly in education, local government, environment, healthcare, and economic development.
Respecting Legal Rights: Ensuring justice and fairness for all citizens, irrespective of political or regional affiliations.
National Dialogue Revisited: A renewed effort to engage all stakeholders, including civil society, spiritual and traditional leaders to craft lasting local solutions.
5. The Legacy of Justice Ayah: A Catalyst for Change
Justice Ayah’s legacy challenges Cameroon to rise above division and build a future grounded in trust and inclusion.
His life's work, though often met with resistance, exemplifies the ideals of justice and integrity that Cameroon must embrace if it is to heal its wounds, permanently.
His passing, while tragic (the natural end that comes to all), could serve as the rallying point for a nation seeking reconciliation and to reaffirm its commitment to unity and progress for all.
Conclusion
Justice Ayah Paul Abine’s passing is a moment of reckoning for Cameroon.
It reminds us of the urgent need to address the grievances of the so-called Anglophone regions and move beyond a history, and reality of perceived marginalization, and perceived exclusion.
By seizing this moment, Cameroon’s leaders have the opportunity to be seen to honor his legacy (a unifying symbolism), restore trust, and build a nation where all its people—diverse yet united—can thrive together.
This is indeed the time to bury the hatchet, to think of the legacy, "outside the box", and to ensure that the dreams of unity, peace, and prosperity for all Cameroonians are no longer deferred.
This will take enormous courage, and cause some pain - of course; but no where near the pain of the past eight years.
Ngembeni Wa Namaso is an Environmental Management Specialist and commentator on Society and Politics. He holds a PhD in Forest Policy and Economics He is based in Yaoundé, Cameroon
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