Apostle of Peace”: Biya Praised for Steering Cameroon Toward Unity and ProgressBy Princeley Njukang

President Paul Biya has been hailed for his unwavering determination to steer Cameroon towards unity and emergence. This was during an event at the Buea Independent Square, popularly known as Mbongo Square, organized to celebrate the 43rd anniversary of his accession to the supreme magistracy of the state.

The ceremony, which coincided with his ninth inauguration, provided an opportunity for party supporters and sympathizers to reaffirm their confidence in his leadership. Biya, who first came to power on November 6, 1982, was praised for maintaining stability and progress, as well as for his expressed commitment to improving the lives of women and youths through his eighth mandate, which took effect following his swearing-in.

Speaking during the ceremony, the CPDM Subsection President for Fako III and Mayor of the Buea Municipality, David Namange, said the people had renewed their trust in Biya because of his “characteristically wise leadership.” He lauded the Head of State for using his inaugural address to call for peace and unity, stressing that peace remains essential for development. “He extended an olive branch to all, as an apostle of peace,” Namange said, adding that he was pleased that the President “had not gone the way of sparing the rot and spoiling the child.”

Mayor Namange also commended the population of Buea for ignoring calls to protest the results of the October 12 presidential election, describing their action as a “republican” move. Although some opposition parties continue to contest the results, the verdict of the Constitutional Council remains final. Through this anniversary event, CPDM bigwigs in Buea sought to remind Cameroonians that their Chairman would remain the president of all Cameroonians, and that his ears would not be closed to their concerns. “He recognized where we have failed. We have listened to the grievances of the people, and we will address them,” Namange assured.

Held under the auspices of the Governor of the South West Region, Bernard Okalia Bilai, the event featured vibrant performances by cultural dance groups reflecting the richness and diversity of Fako Division in particular, and Cameroon in general. The dances carried different messages; some celebrating the President’s victory, others expressing community aspirations and concerns.

As has become tradition, the anniversary featured the symbolic cutting of a cake. The President of the CPDM Women’s Wing for Fako III, Dr. Regina Wotany” , described the white cake—baked “in the likeness” of President Biya—as a symbol of “Greatness and Hope,” the ruling party’s slogan for the next seven years and the theme of this 43rd anniversary.

In a motion of support read by Dr. Wotany” , CPDM members of Fako III once again pledged their commitment to rally behind the “Man of the New Deal,” ensuring that he accomplishes his stated ambitions during this new mandate. “We are looking behind with a lot of satisfaction, though not perfection, and we are looking ahead with a lot of hope,” they declared.

As has become tradition, the anniversary featured the symbolic cutting of a cake. The President of the CPDM Women’s Wing for Fako III, Dr. Regina Wotany” , described the white cake—baked “in the likeness” of President Biya—as a symbol of “Greatness and Hope,” the ruling party’s slogan for the next seven years and the theme of this 43rd anniversary.

In a motion of support read by Dr. Wotany” , CPDM members of Fako III once again pledged their commitment to rally behind the “Man of the New Deal,” ensuring that he accomplishes his stated ambitions during this new mandate. “We are looking behind with a lot of satisfaction, though not perfection, and we are looking ahead with a lot of hope,” they declared.