President Paul Biya's 2023 New Year speech to Cameroonians was characterised by a dual focus on national security and patriotism, reflecting the complex socio-political realities facing the nation. Delivered against the backdrop of a harrowing massacre in Mamfe, the speech offered condemnations, reassurances, and promises. However, a closer analysis reveals critical gaps between rhetoric and the practical challenges confronting the nation.
The President’s address began by denouncing the barbaric killing of twenty civilians in Mamfe, a stark reminder of the insecurity plaguing the North-West and South-West Regions. While his condemnation of the massacre and praise for the professionalism of security forces were expected, many Cameroonians might find these assurances lacking in tangible solutions. Critics argue that such atrocities persist because of systemic issues in governance and security strategy. For instance, the repeated calls for armed groups to disarm have yielded mixed results, with only a fraction heeding the appeal despite years of operation of the Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) centres.
President Biya's assertion of a commitment to the security of Cameroonians was emphatic. However, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. The continued volatility in the Anglophone regions, coupled with sporadic terrorist activities in the Far North, has left many questioning the effectiveness of current security measures.
The government’s dual approach offering reintegration to repentant fighters while promising harsh consequences for persistent criminals has not significantly curbed the violence. The fate of those “persisting in criminal activity” is often discussed in speeches, but the mechanisms to prevent such activities from thriving remain under scrutiny.
The speech shifted focus to the nation's beloved Indomitable Lions, rallying Cameroonians to unite in support of their team at the Africa Cup of Nations. This invocation of national pride is a recurring theme in presidential speeches, often serving as a temporary unifier amidst broader divisions. However, while football has historically brought Cameroonians together, critics may view this as a diversion from pressing national issues like unemployment, education, and healthcare. The question arises: does a strong performance by the Indomitable Lions compensate for the systemic challenges Cameroonians face daily?
The brevity of the address left many key areas unaddressed. Beyond security and football, there was little mention of economic recovery, infrastructure development, or measures to tackle inflation. In a year where Cameroonians faced rising costs of living, inadequate healthcare, and educational challenges, the omission of these concerns might be seen as a significant oversight. Additionally, the speech did not address governance reforms or the decentralisation process, which many believe could be crucial to resolving the Anglophone crisis and fostering inclusive development.
President Biya’s 2023 New Year speech offered a familiar mix of condemnations, reassurances, and patriotic appeals. However, the gap between promises and delivery remains a concern for many Cameroonians. While the President’s call for resilience and national pride resonates, the true measure of his leadership will depend on how these words translate into concrete actions in the months to come. As Cameroonians reflect on the year ahead, they are likely to demand more than rhetoric they will expect visible progress in peacebuilding, economic development, and governance.