Abduction of Persons In NW/SW Regions : National Assembly Condemns Heinous Actions

While chairing the opening plenary of the June session of Parliament at the National Assembly (second ordinary session for the 2023 Legislative year) on June 8, 2023, the House Speaker, Cavaye Yaguie Djibril frowned at the abduction of persons and demand for ransom before their release in the two restive North West and South West Regions of the country. He was referring to the recent kidnapping of women in Mezam Division of the North West Region on May 20, 2023 (now released) and six other citizens including officials of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) on May 21, 2023 (still to be freed) in Momo Division, North West Region. The kidnappings during a period when Cameroon was celebrating its National Day, the House Speaker said, did not in any way disrupt the activities as planned by the separatist fighters, as a resounding success of festivities was recorded nationwide. “The National Assembly equally disapproves the collection of local taxes by armed groups. It tends to portray Cameroon as a State within a State. That is not true. I say “no” to that. It is impossible to have more than one State in Cameroon. Our beloved and beautiful country is a decentralised unitary State. Cameroon is one and indivisible,” he stated in strong terms. The law maker also called for the immediate and unconditional release of those in captivity by these armed groups.
Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril’s speech also touched on the epidemiological situation of the country as he saluted government’s response strategy which has made it possible to administer treatment to cholera patients, educate the general public and increase surveillance in affected regions. To him, the strategy needs to be implemented by all. “For example, it would be auspicious for regional and local authorities, especially councils that are closer to the population to contribute their quota in implementing government’s response strategy,” he encourag...