Four years after the passing of Christian Cardinal Tumi, Cameroonians continue to reflect on the life and legacy of a man who dedicated himself to justice, peace, and the service of humanity. The first and only Cameroonian cardinal until his death on 3 April 2021, Tumi was widely regarded as a fearless advocate for truth and a defender of the marginalised.
Archbishop Samuel Kleda, his successor in Douala, described him as “a shepherd who never abandoned his flock, even in the face of threats and intimidation.”
Political analyst Emmanuel Mbami noted that Tumi’s advocacy for federalism and good governance remains a point of reference in discussions on Cameroon’s future.
Born on 15 October 1930 in Kikaikelaki, Kumbo, Tumi dedicated his life to the service of the Church and his people. Ordained a priest in 1966, he rose through the ranks to become Bishop of Yagoua in 1979 and later Archbishop of Garoua. In 1988, Pope John Paul II elevated him to the rank of cardinal, making him Cameroon’s first and only cardinal at the time. Throughout his career, he remained a voice of conscience, challenging the suppression of Anglophone identity, advocating for electoral reforms, and urging Cameroonians to embrace peace and unity. His fearlessness was evident even in his later years, particularly in November 2020, when he was briefly kidnapped by separatist fighters but remained steadfast in his calls for reconciliation.
Cardinal Tumi’s legacy is also marked by his advocacy on moral and social issues. He consistently opposed corruption, criticised human rights abuses, and championed the rights of the poor. As president of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon from 1985 to 1991, he played a key role in promoting social justice and interfaith dialogue. Even after his retirement as Archbishop of Douala in 2009, he remained active, writing books, granting interviews, and engaging in peace initiatives. His book, The Political Regimes of Cameroon, was a bold critique of governance in the country, reinforcing his reputation as a fearless truth-teller.
Four years after his death, efforts to honour his memory continue. Catholic institutions and civil society groups have held memorial masses, discussions, and community projects in his name. The Catholic University Institute of Buea has proposed renaming one of its faculties after him, while efforts are underway to establish a foundation that will continue his work in education and conflict resolution. Cameroonians remember him not just as a cleric but as a national figure whose influence transcended religious lines.
As Cameroon continues to grapple with political and social challenges, many believe that Cardinal Tumi’s vision of a just and inclusive society is more relevant than ever. His calls for dialogue in the Anglophone crisis, electoral transparency, and moral leadership remain guiding principles for those striving to bring change.
Four years on, Cardinal Tumi’s voice may be physically absent, but his words and actions continue to inspire. His fearless spirit, deep faith, and relentless pursuit of justice have left an indelible mark on Cameroon’s history. As the nation remembers him, his legacy stands as a reminder that true leadership is not about power but about service to humanity.