Public discourse: Youth leader, Cleatine Asongwe, condemns hate narratives, drums social cohesion.

He expressed his views in a reflection on the use of words in public discourse on his Facebook page, which he insisted, do not represent those of any organisation or institution with which he is affiliated.

Asongwe, in the reflection, regretted the intense discussion generated across social media platforms based on recent exchanges among influential voices within the Anglophone community.  

To Asongwe, robust debate is an important part of any democratic society. Such moment, he explained, also provide an opportunity to reflect on the importance of responsible public discourse.

“The use of labels, stereotypes, or language that demeans individuals based on regional identity can deepen divisions and weaken social cohesion,” Asongwe stated. 

He said in a context where communities share a common history, common challenges, and common aspirations, “public conversations should strengthen understanding rather than reinforce differences”. 

In his write-up, Asongwe recalled that the Responsibility to Protect (R2P), endorsed by all UN Member States in 2005, should in such a context be a reminder that “preventing violence begins long before violence occurs”.

Asongwe said violence prevention involves addressing the conditions that can undermine trust, fuel polarization, and weaken social bonds.

Basing his argument from one of the enduring lessons of the 1994 Rwanda genocide, Asongwe said “societies should never underestimate the importance of promoting respect and rejecting narratives that divide people along identity lines”.

He said while historical contexts differ significantly, the broader and relevant lesson is that “peaceful societies are built through dialogue, inclusion, and mutual respect”. 

“Today, the North West and South West Regions face many shared challenges. The path forward lies not in amplifying old divisions but in strengthening the values that unite communities,” Asongwe stated. 

He challenged public figures, civil society actors, and citizens alike, to at their respective corners, play a role in “fostering constructive dialogue and peaceful coexistence”. 

“As citizens, let us choose words that build bridges rather than walls. Let us encourage respectful engagement, challenge harmful stereotypes, and promote a culture of unity and dignity,” he appealed. 

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3855 of Wednesday July 22, 2026