Bamenda: Veteran journalist, Chris Mbunwe, laid to rest.

Last Saturday morning, his remains were removed from the St. Blaise Mortuary and conveyed to the WICUDA hall, where the body lay in state for public viewing.

Mourners filed past in solemn tribute before proceeding to the All Saints Parish Bayelle for the funeral Mass.

The Eucharistic celebration brought together a cross-section of journalists, political actors, cultural groups, and family members, who came to honour a man widely regarded as a pillar in the North West media landscape. 

He was later laid to rest at the parish cemetery. A reception followed at WICUDA hall, offering an opportunity for shared memories and reflection. Funeral activities concluded on Sunday, April 26, with a thanksgiving Mass at All Saints Parish Bayelle.

Mbunwe’s burial was marked by symbolic gestures from members of the Cameroon Association of English-Speaking Journalists CAMASEJ, where he served as founding President of the Bamenda Chapter.

During tributes, colleagues planted pens on his grave and laid a wreath, signifying his lifelong dedication to journalism and the enduring power of his words.

Born in 1963, Chris Mbunwe passed away on April 12, 2026, at the age of 63. Family sources say he collapsed at home shortly before a scheduled meeting and was rushed to a health facility in Bamenda, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

His death came as a shock to many, particularly as he had shown signs of recovery in the days leading up to his passing.

A seasoned journalist, Mbunwe spent decades with the Buea-based bi-weekly, The Post newspaper, rising through the ranks to becoming North West Bureau Chief of the media organ. He later founded The Champion in late 2025, further cementing his commitment to investigative reporting and public accountability. 

Many young journalists credit him with shaping their careers through mentorship and professional guidance. According to Liboh Etienne, who took over from late Chris Mbunwe as Bureau Chief, his writing skills were shaped by him during his internship tenure before he later became a reporter under him.

“I learned a lot from him, and he contributed a lot to my professional career,” Liboh said. 

Many colleagues say he will be remembered for his objectivity, critical and thoughtful contributions to the growth of journalism and society at large.

Beyond journalism, he was an active member of the Social Democratic Front, SDF serving as Regional Communication Secretary and contesting municipal elections in Nkambe in 2013. 

He also played a key role in community development as former President of the Wimbum Cultural and Development Association Bamenda branch, where he championed several initiatives and development projects.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3773 of Monday April 27, 2026