By Nformi Ngi Jones Tamfu
In a bold assessment of the prevailing political climate, Dr. Nick Ngwanyam, a prominent and progressive member of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) party, has issued a compelling call for an immediate and comprehensive national dialogue to address the deep-seated grievances fueling tensions across Cameroon.
Dr. Ngwanyam argues that the nation’s current strife is not due to isolated incidents, but rather reflects a “deeper, more systemic discontent” rooted in the frustrations and unique challenges faced by various communities.
Speaking on his vision for the nation, Dr. Ngwanyam stressed that he was driven into politics by the existing national problems. He recounted a pivotal moment in 2013, following President Paul Biya’s end-of-year address to the nation, which he felt was a “crying and begging for help,” a help that was “not forthcoming” due to a culture that treats the President as “all-powerful and all-knowing,” coupled with pervasive corruption.” If you ask me today what I want for the nation,” Dr. Ngwanyam stated, “I want a nation that is peaceful. I want a nation that is united, where we all embody the spirit of Ubuntu.”
He articulated a vision of a harmonious society where citizens genuinely share each other’s pain and joy, free from divisive labels like “sardinards,” “tontinards,” “moutons,” or “Wadjo.”
“I want a nation where everybody is well-fed, has a roof over their heads, and where hardworking individuals earn a decent salary or create their own enterprises,” he explained.
Dr. Ngwanyam linked his national aspirations to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, desiring a society where every citizen can fulfill their basic needs, pursue self-actualization, and ultimately transcend their own needs to help others grow.
Dr. Ngwanyam warned that political differences can only be resolved by tackling the underlying issues that give rise to them, cautioning against the evasion seen with the Anglophone crisis.
He was critical of the approach taken to resolve the crisis, suggesting that Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute “fell short” by opting for a one-sided approach and avoiding “uncomfortable truths.” This, he argued, led to the “ambiguous concept of ‘Special Status’ that lacks a clear definition, leading to ineffective outcomes.”
The way forward, according to Dr. Nick Ngwanyam, requires an inclusive and open national dialogue that genuinely facilitates a constructive exchange of ideas and fosters mutual understanding among disparate communities.
In conclusion, Dr. Ngwanyam emphasized: “The most effective way to address these grievances is through sincere listening and open dialogue, where negotiation leads to mutual understanding and consensus. This process should be grounded in truth, love, and respect.” He stressed the necessity of confronting the truth directly, without softening words, to prevent tensions from escalating. Dr. Ngwanyam’s willingness to speak out positions him as a forward-thinking and progressive voice within the dominant CPDM political landscape. He is known for actively engaging in discussions and initiatives aimed at finding effective solutions, prioritizing the needs of the community and advocating for accountability and transparency over mere party loyalty.
