Political Marginalization of Anglophone and Government Measures
Since 1973, Mr. Tandeng Muna has had to be content with his position as President of the National Assembly, where his influence is significantly diminished. From that point onward, Anglophones have had few illusions regarding their power within state institutions.
The decision by President Biya in January 1984 to transform the United Republic of Cameroon into the Republic of Cameroon marks the latest stage in this political evolution. The change of the party’s name at the Bamenda Congress further attenuated, if not eliminated, all references to the 1966 merger of political parties. This development occurred to the great dismay of Anglophone leaders, such as Mr. Ngu Foncha, former head of the Cameroon National Democratic Party (KNDP), who, despite his role as First Vice-President of the Central Committee, was unable to oppose the change (see my dispatch No. 123/DAM).
Government response to Anglophone concerns
Faced with the various apprehensions expressed by the Anglophone community, the government has sought to adopt a conciliatory approach and avoid exposing itself to criticism. The holding of the agro-pastoral fair and the party congress in Bamenda allowed the city to acquire new infrastructure. In addition, the Kumba–Mamfè road is intended to open up and better connect the South-West Province.
Politically, the representation of the Anglophone provinces is respected within both the Government and the ruling party, as well as in the military. Regarding education, the project to create a single national system remains on the government’s agenda, but continues to encounter resistance from Anglophone stakeholders, who are generally distrustful of reforms initiated by Francophones in this sector.
Nonetheless, the English-speaking community is not without its spokespersons on these matters. These include the Secretary of State in charge of National Education, Mme Catherine Bko Ngomba, and the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Mr. Jacob Ngui Diganci, both of whom belong to the Anglophone community. Another gesture by the authorities this year was the opening of a university center in the South-West Province, signaling a modest attempt to address some of the long-standing grievances.
EKN
