Members of the ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) party in Boyo IV, Bum subdivision, Northwest Region, have spoken out against the pervasive use of hate speech, which they say is rapidly fracturing the community.
During a joint section conference held on the eve of the 52nd National Day celebrations in Fonfuka on May 19, 2024, Ban Michael, the section President, warned that hate speech serves only to divide and stagnate both personal and communal development.
The conference, which attracted an audience of approximately 600 militants, filled the 300-capacity hall to overflowing. The mayor of Fonfuka council, Gwei Philip addressed the gathering, cautioning against the rising trend of hatred in Bum. He noted that Bum has always been a politically diverse area, where people have the freedom to choose their leaders based on the potential for tangible results. He emphasized that the well-being of Bum surpasses the interests of any political party, official, or even the Fon of Bum. “When Bum’s interests are threatened, all other interests must be suppressed,” the mayor declared.
Senator Wanlo John echoed this sentiment, urging participants to remember the long-standing efforts and achievements of the CPDM in Boyo IV. He highlighted the substantial progress made possible by the party’s strong foundations, while also warning against those who seek to disrupt this progress.
"These young men trying to cause division are like farmers who set their maize fields ablaze just as the crops are ready for harvest," he metaphorically explained, urging vigilance and unity among the people.
The conference also addressed the growing influence of the National Union for Democracy and Progress (NUDP), led by Minister Bello Buba Maigaji, which has been gaining support from members of other political parties within the subdivision. CPDM leaders in Boyo IV acknowledged the need to restrategize and re-educate their militants to resist the allure of these newcomers. Prince Michelson, the section’s secretary general, made a compelling case for loyalty to the ruling party.
“It’s foolish to leave the party that holds the power to join an opposition that must beg from those in power,” he stated.
By denouncing hate speech and reaffirming their commitment to the community’s development, the CPDM leaders hope to foster an environment where political diversity does not translate into division, but rather, collective growth and stability.