Traditional rulers in Cameroon have praised President Paul Biya for his ‘wisdom’ amid the country’s economic and political crises. This support underscores a troubling trend where these leaders prioritize personal gains over community advocacy. With no succession plan in sight and Biya’s long tenure marred by crises, there are urgent calls for leadership that truly represents and serves the needs of the population.
The Royal Praise Choir of Cameroon, also known as the National Council of Traditional Rulers, has publicly expressed admiration for President Paul Biya, attributing to him the wisdom necessary to govern the nation. This endorsement comes while the country grapples with severe issues like economic crisis, extensive unemployment, and widespread poverty. Instead of addressing these challenges, the rulers prefer to celebrate Biya, implying that the complexities of leadership involve little more than their own financial interests.
At 92 years old, Biya maintains a political grip on the country, despite a youth demographic that constitutes over 60% of the population yet remains without jobs or political voice. The stagnant economy and ongoing Anglophone crisis, which has led to significant loss of life, highlight Biya’s failed governance. Yet traditional rulers insist on portraying him as a stabilizing force, framing Cameroon as a “peaceful and admired country,” revealing the disconnect between their words and the realities facing citizens.
Chieftains traditionally serve as protectors of their communities but have devolved into political cheerleaders under Biya’s rule. Their complicity in preserving the status quo is evident, as they have traded their responsibility to advocate for their communities in exchange for governmental perks. If these leaders genuinely cared about their people’s welfare, they would demand better living conditions and openly critique the election system marred by fraud and the ongoing humanitarian crises.
As questions arise regarding Cameroon’s future in a post-Biya era, it becomes evident that no leadership succession plans are in place, raising concerns about governance. Biya’s tenure, lasting over 43 years, hasn’t produced a competent follower, proving his reign is characterized by a lack of foresight rather than wisdom. Instead, Cameroon requires a leader adept in modern governance and democracy, one who prioritizes serving citizens above all.
The culture of deference towards Biya needs to be dismantled; Cameroon deserves leadership marked by accountability, not lifetime rule. Traditional leaders must recommit to their roles as cultural guardians rather than political puppets. For the Cameroonian populace, the forthcoming election should focus less on an aging leader and more on transcending empty allegiances in favor of genuine transformation, moving away from superficial loyalty to proactive engagement in governance.
The article highlights the troubling dynamic between traditional rulers and President Paul Biya, showcasing how these leaders prioritize their own benefits over the pressing needs of the Cameroonian populace. As the nation confronts economic and social crises, it is critical for leaders to genuinely advocate for their communities instead of engaging in political theatre. True change necessitates a shift away from blind loyalty towards a vision for progressive governance that serves the people.
Original Source: www.cameroon-concord.com
