Prolonged Anglophone Conflict, Archbishop Nkea Hits the Nail on the Head: Gov’t Must Engage in Direct Talks with Amba Fighters
Colbert Gwain
Last Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Follow-up Committee meeting on the implementation of the resolutions of the 2019 Major National Dialogue called by President Paul Biya to resolve the Anglophone conflict, the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute spent time advertising the success rate of the implementation of the resolutions and explaining government resolve to see that all the resolutions were implemented.
Although the Prime Minister gave to understanding it was just enough for all the resolutions to be implemented for the conflict (that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced thousands more both internally and externally) to be brought to a satisfactory end, a key actor in the Follow -Up Committee, Archbishop Andrew Nkea, was categorical government seem to be speaking to itself. Echoing the thoughts of most separatist fighters, the level-headed pastor and shepherd of the metropolitan church in Bamenda said the government needed to do more if they really wanted this conflict to come to a satisfactory end: engage in direct talks with separatist fighters
The Archbishop’s statement is not just a moral imperative but also a practical necessity. This is not the first time Archbishop Nkea has proffered this advice to the government of Cameroon. In 2020, he wrote a pastoral letter emphasizing that seeking peace was not a sign of weakness
The Cameroon government’s willingness to engage in direct peace talks or revive the Swiss or Canadian Initiatives is key to resolving the conflict. However, as Nkea had noted before, the process has been slow, and the demands of the freedom fighters, including the release of their supporters from prisons and the withdrawal of the military forces, have not been met.
Engaging directly with Ambazonia state army ASA would foster trust and create a conducive environment for resolving the conflict. Archbishop Nkea aptly emphasized the importance of dialogue, stating, “Synodality implies dialogue, discussion, moving together… This great innovation offers us great help in conflict situations.” His words resonate deeply, especially considering the immense suffering the conflict has already caused.
The need for immediate action from all parties involved cannot be overstated. As Christians approach the Easter season, Archbishop Nkea’s appeal takes on added significance. The story of Jesus Christ, who paid a debt he didn’t owe and selflessly died for sins he didn’t commit, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking peace and reconciliation.
Continuing to engage in internal discussions, as seen in Yaounde last Tuesday, would only serve to widen the trust gap between parties. This approach is reminiscent of Jesus’ decision to appear to his disciples after his resurrection, rather than to the Roman soldiers who crucified him. Jesus’ choice was likely due to the soldiers’ disbelief in the resurrection.
In contrast, Archbishop Andrew Nkea has stated that Ambazonia freedom fighters believe genuine dialogue is the only way to end the eight-year conflict. This willingness to engage in dialogue offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution. By prioritizing direct communication, the parties involved can work towards building trust and finding a mutually beneficial solution.
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