Traditional rulers in Cameroon have recently praised President Paul Biya, citing his wisdom amidst a backdrop of economic decline and social unrest. Despite their claims, significant issues persist, such as youth unemployment and the Anglophone crisis, indicating a disconnect between rulers and the populace. With Biya’s advanced age and lack of succession planning, the nation faces an uncertain future, prompting a call for genuine leadership.
The National Council of Traditional Rulers in Cameroon, also referred to as the Royal Praise Choir, has recently praised President Paul Biya, calling him the sole bearer of wisdom necessary to navigate the nation’s complexities. This public display of allegiance comes amidst escalating crises in Cameroon, characterized by economic decline, resource mismanagement, and lack of political freedom. The rulers’ praises raise questions regarding their commitment to addressing pressing national issues such as poverty and insecurity, suggesting their motivations may be self-serving due to ongoing financial incentives from the government.
At 92 years of age, President Biya has remained in power for over four decades, during which time the country’s youth—over 60% of the population—have largely been left without jobs or representation. Cameroon’s economy faces stagnation amid a cycle of debt and corruption, compounded by ongoing conflicts such as the Anglophone crisis, which has resulted in significant loss of life. Despite this, traditional rulers assert Biya’s foresight is key to maintaining the nation’s stability, a viewpoint that many find not only perplexing but tragically amusing.
Traditional leaders are historically expected to protect their communities and uphold justice. However, in the current political landscape of Cameroon, these figures appear to have transformed into entities that prioritize loyalty to the government over their communities’ welfare, receiving benefits in exchange for affirming a ineffective regime. If they genuinely served their constituents, they would demand improved living conditions, denounce electoral fraud, and press for solutions to the Anglophone crisis and youth unemployment.
A crucial concern arises regarding the future of Cameroon in the absence of Biya. With no clear successor or transition plan in place following his prolonged rule, the assertion of his wisdom seems misleading, revealing a lack of foresight and preparation. Instead of clinging to the idea of a wise elder from afar, the nation requires a new leader who embodies modern governance and democratic engagement.
It is imperative that the culture of venerating Biya ceases, as Cameroon’s leadership should not be akin to a monarchy. Traditional chiefs must reclaim their roles as community protectors rather than as political figureheads. The responsibility now falls to the Cameroonian populace to seek genuine change, moving beyond superficial allegiances and demanding robust leadership to steer the future of the nation.
In conclusion, the traditional rulers’ support for President Biya highlights a troubling dynamic within Cameroon, where loyalty to power overrides the responsibility to advocate for their communities. The nation’s future remains uncertain with the absence of a proper succession plan, thereby necessitating a call for authentic leadership over mere adulation of the current government. The collective action of the Cameroonian people is essential to foster a system that promotes true governance and democratic ideals.
Original Source: www.cameroon-concord.com
