David Abouem à Tchoyi: Francophone Statesman who fought for resolution of Anglophone crisis dies.

The late David Abouem à Tchoyi

Revered French-speaking Statesman, David Abouem à Tchoyi, who fought for the resolution of the Anglophone crisis before it morphed into an armed conflict, has died at the age of 81.



The former member of government and member of the Bilingualism Commission a bowed out during the evening hours of Wednesday January 15, 2025, with most of the proposals he made for the resolution of the worsening crisis still being ignored by the current regime. 

His demise has left the nation at large and the English-speaking Regions in particular in shock and disbelief.

Details leading to the demise of the former Higher Education Minister remains sketchy. The Guardian Post gathered that the distinguished Statesman breathed his last after celebrating his birthday same day he quit the scene. 

It was gathered that Abouem à Tchoyi, who once served as Secretary General at the Presidency of the Republic, slumped and died on the night of that fateful day.

Abouem à Tchoyi, who was serving as member of the National Commission for the Promotion of Bilingualism and Multiculturalism, was last seen in public on Friday January 10. 

That was during the ceremony to present New Year wishes to the Head of State, Paul Biya. Abouem à Tchoyi, who was part of the Bilingualism Commission delegation to the ceremony held at the State House, showed no signs of ill health during the public outing.

His demise has left the nation in complete shock and consternation. The departure of Abouem à Tchoyi has been described as a colossal loss to his Region of origin and the country as a whole.

As a consummate public administrator, Abouem à Tchoyi contributed immensely to the growth of the nation until his final days. 

The highly-resourceful and responsive public figure was a vocal voice against injustices, especially those meted on Anglophones.

Known for his pivotal role in public administration and his commitment to bilingualism and multiculturalism, Abouem à Tchoyi leaves behind a legacy of exemplary public service.

Born on January 15, 1944, in Kribi of the South Region, Abouem à Tchoyi embarked on a remarkable career that saw him serve the State in different rungs of the administrative ladder.

His academic journey began with his primary education in his native village in 1950, followed by secondary studies at the Evangelical College of Libamba; from 1957 to 1964. 

He would later graduate with a Bachelor of Law Degree from the then University of Yaounde in 1967. 

David Abouem à Tchoyi also graduated from the prestigious National School of Administration and Magistracy, ENAM in 1969. 

From ENAM, he went on to obtain a certificate from the International Institute of Public Administration, IIAP in Paris, France.

On September 8, 1976, David Abouem à Tchoyi was appointed governor of the then North West Province, a role which saw him showcased his administrative acumen and dedication to governance. 

His tenure as governor of the North West Provence was marked by significant strides in sustaining unity and development, amidst the challenges of the time. 

After the North West Province, he also served as governor of the then South West Province, further cementing his reputation as a skilled public administrator.

Beyond his regional leadership, Abouem à Tchoyi held several high-ranking positions in Cameroon’s public administration. 

He notably served as Secretary General at the Prime Minister’s Office from July 17, 1975 to 1984.

On February 4, 1984, he was appointed Secretary General at the Presidency of the Republic, a role that placed him at the heart of executive decision-making.

He also served as Secretary General in the Ministry of Territorial Administration, that of Land Planning, and Ministry of Economy and Planning.

In the academic sphere, he was appointed Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research from August 24, 1985, to November 21, 1986, where he championed policies to advance education and innovation in Cameroon.

In his later years, Abouem à Tchoyi served as a member of the National Commission for the Promotion Bilingualism and Multiculturalism, an institution established to promote linguistic and cultural harmony in Cameroon. 

His deep understanding of the country’s diverse fabric and his advocacy for inclusion remain an indication to his commitment to national unity.

David Abouem à Tchoyi’s illustrious career spanned over four decades, during which he exemplified integrity, professionalism, and a profound dedication to public service. 

His death marks the end of an era for a Statesman who was deeply committed to the ideals of bilingualism, multiculturalism, and nation-building.

 

 

This story was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3341 of Friday January 17, 2025

 

about author About author : Doh Bertrand Nua

See my other articles

Related Articles

Comments

    No comment availaible !

Leave a comment