Tension In Bamenda, Buea: Dialogue, Consultation Recommended

House Speaker, Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril condemned violence, destruction of State symbols and MPs taking sashes to the streets.

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril on Friday, December 9, 2016 condemned the recent upheavals in the North West and South West Regions as vague desires to divide Cameroon   and heinous acts like burning the flag of Cameroon. He spoke at the Ngoa-Ekelle National Assembly House Chamber as he chaired the closing plenary sitting of the November 2016 ordinary session of parliament.

This was in the presence of the President of the Senate, Marcel Niat Njifenji and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.  Concerning the demands raised by lawyers, teachers and students in the English speaking part of Cameroon that unfortunately spiralled into violent street protests, he said, « I am quite convinced that no matter what the situation may be or how legitimate or illegitimate such demands may be, only dialogue and consultation  must always prevail.»

He reiterated that street  action only results in disorder, misunderstanding, manipulation, instrumentality, confrontation  that may degenerate  and lead to irreparable loss. In this connection, he advised, «Wisdom should lead us to seek an appropriate forum for dialogue where appropriate solutions to the issues raised will be found. »

Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril used the occasion to remind MPs of the  obligations pertaining to their status, hammering more on the green, red and yellow coloured sashes which are a « solemn attribute through which we are granted immunity and an honourable status… and distinctive sign which demonstrates their belonging to the legislative arm of the State. » Considering that some MPs wore the sashes during demonstrations, he warned that, «  There should not be abusive use of the sash in our streets. It must be respected and protected. »

The House Speaker also used the plenary sitting to  present a balance sheet of the November 2016 ordin...