Taking Dialogue Further

Commentary

The maiden working visit by Prime Minister Chief Dr Joseph Dion Ngute to the North West Region from 9-12 May 2019 following his appointment on 4 January 2019 has ended with a major disclosure. Namely that a more structured dialogue could be imminent in Cameroon to tackle the unrest that has been rocking the North West and South West Regions for the past three years.

Although several measures have already been taken, on the instructions of the Head of State, to provide solutions, the persistent nature of the tension and the wanton loss of human lives and property call for something new. It was certainly in such a spirit that the Prime Minister had to go down to the field, talk to the people, listen to them again and see how best to move forward the national agenda in relation to the ongoing crisis.

Consequently, the Head of Government announced the readiness of the Head of State to open another form of dialogue different from various consultations that have so far taken place with targeted groups in the two restive regions. Thus, the PM stated that; “President Paul Biya is prepared for dialogue and it needs people who are representative enough. He is prepared to listen and do things that advance life for all. Apart from separation, the President is ready for discussions on all other topics of national interest.” By saying that there is need for enough representation and giving clues concerning the subjects for discussion, Chief Dion Ngute expressed the resolve of the Head of State to further explore avenues for peace and stability to return to the affected regions.

The “national cause” of emergence which has so far drawn attention in the country has definitely been at the cross-roads after the strike action by teachers’ trade unions and Common Law Lawyers in 2016 degenerated and has since posed a serious threat to the economic, social and political life of the two regions. For Cameroon to attain the level of an emerging economy by 2035, there is need for all sons and daughters of the soil to come on board.

Yet, the upheavals in the North West and South West Regions pose a handicap to development and progress in the country. Adopting an approach that requires a structured dialogue may not only be another dimension to resolving the crisis, but also an opportunity for those who master the genuine concerns of the North West and South West in particular, and the country as a whole, to be able to articulate those problems in view of seeking lasting solutions. Of course, it is no news that a toothache has the potential of not only af fecting the entir...