At opening of June session of Parliament: Cavaye strikes opposition for threats to incite post-electoral violence.

The opening plenary was attended by cabinet ministers, led by the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Chief Dr Joseph Dion Ngute, heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Cameroon and other national dignitaries. 

In his opening remarks, Hon Cavaye noted that besides football, the only other issue animating public discussions is undoubtedly next year's elections.

The veteran politician said, while election dates are yet be made public, some political parties are already strategising on staging post-electoral violence should the election results s not favour them.

Amidst the said effervescence in the political scene, Hon Cavaye said some political actors in their quest to accede to power are already promising to fuel post-electoral violence. 

Though Hon Cavaye fell short of calling the names of the said political figures, The Guardian Post understands that the ageing politician was referring to the President of opposition Cameroon Renaissance Movement, MRC party, Prof Maurice Kamto, and other members of his political coalitions in gestation.

“Some compatriots have, for want of a clear political vision or due to their quest to accede to power, already promised to foment post-electoral violence, nay chaos, in the event where their opponent wins the election. Is that democracy?,” he questioned rhetorically. 

He stated that Cameroon has invested a lot in creating solid institutions that are functioning harmoniously and as such doesn’t deserve to reap any post-electoral violence. 

“Needless to also remind them that Cameroonians are no longer credulous. They have reached the threshold of maturity that now makes them capable of differentiating the wheat from the grass,” the Speaker sent a warning signal to political actors.

He then exhorted Cameroonians to remain calm, be on the alert and to guard against ill-intentioned individuals. 

“Those who take such anti-republican stance not only acknowledge their weakness, their stance also shows they lack a winning strategy since they do not have anything concrete to propose to Cameroonians,” he insisted.

ELECAM given pat on the back

The Speaker of the National Assembly also seized the opportunity of the opening session of parliament to commend Elections Cameroon, ELECAM, for its efforts on the field to enrol Cameroonians on electoral register.

Hails Cameroon’s diplomatic triumphs 

According to Hon Cavaye, Cameroon has continued to triumph on the international scene, under the guidance of President Paul Biya, despite its challenges. 

He noted that this has been marked by the designation of Hon Hilarion Etong during the 30th Africa Regional Assembly Meeting of the Francophonie, APF, to the post of President of the body. 

The octogenarian lawmaker said this was followed by the election of Philemon Yang to the prestigious post of President of the 79th United Nations General Assembly.

In congratulating both Cameroonians, Hon Cavaye said “such diplomatic victories are attributed to the Head of State, His Excellency Paul Biya’s prowess, especially as he has always given a personal touch to Cameroon’s diplomatic influence”.

Pays tribute to late MP

Meanwhile, a moment of silence was observed in honour of their departed colleague, Hon Memouna Mahamat. 

The MP for Manyo Banyo Constituency was snatched by the cold hands of death while she was serving her first term of office. 

MPs knighted

The opening plenary at the National Assembly was also marked by the presentation of medals to some deserving MPs. The lawmakers were recognised for their works in their constituencies. The MPs were knighted on behalf of the President of the Republic of Cameroon, by the Speaker. 

Recipients of the medals included Hon Bara Julien, Hon Dongho Clement, Hon Essono Francis Lin Mathieu, Hon Douvaouissa Aissa Hamadi, Hon Ngoko Mambe Marie Louise, Hon Bello Limane and Hon Nanga Marthe Georgette Clarice Épée Menana. 

Similar business in Senate 

Speaking during the opening session of the Senate yesterday, Senate President, Marcel Niat Njifenji, hailed the diplomatic savvy of President Paul Biya.

He said the election of former Prime Minister and Grand Chancelor of National Orders, Philemon Yang, as President of the 79th UN General Assembly, is a major victory for the country. 

He equally congratulated the efforts of ELECAM in the enrolment of new voters into the electoral register ahead of multiple elections in 2025.

Niat also condemned the killing of the Mayor of Belo council, Dr Ngong Innocent, by suspected separatist fighters, during the celebration of National Day last May 20. The mayor was killed alongside the Inspector of Basic Education for the Subdivision.

This story was first published in The Guardian Post issue No 3139 of Wednesday June 12, 2024