The Social Democratic Front (SDF) of Cameroon and the Parti des Peuples Africains – Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI) have affirmed their shared commitment to pan-Africanism and sovereignty. The National Chairman of the SDF, Honourable Joshua Osih, attended the third edition of the Fête de la Renaissance in Dabou on April 11 and 12, 2025, as the guest of honour of former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo.
Commemoration of Liberation and Resistance
The Fête de la Renaissance, initially known as the Fête de la Liberté under the Front Populaire Ivoirien (FPI), now symbolises the liberation of President Laurent Gbagbo following his acquittal by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on March 31, 2021. This year’s event was held in Dabou, a location significant for being the clandestine birthplace of Côte d’Ivoire’s first opposition party in 1988 and the site of resistance against neo-colonialism on April 11, 2011. A press release by the SDF states that these dates and locations represent “two powerful symbols marking a new chapter towards Africa’s total sovereignty.”
Symbolic Participation and Endorsement
Honourable Joshua Osih actively participated in the official opening ceremony on April 11, 2025, including the symbolic ribbon-cutting. According to the press release, Mr. Osih “received from his Ivorian peers the symbolic blessing to carry forward the flame of Pan-Africanism in Cameroon, and to proudly represent the African Left in the upcoming October 2025 presidential election in Cameroon.”
Shared Vision for a Sovereign Africa
Laurent Gbagbo warmly received the SDF delegation. The two parties then engaged in discussions regarding their mutual vision for “a united, sovereign Africa — free from the chains of neo-colonialism and firmly committed to social justice, genuine democracy, and inclusive development.”
Renewed Commitment to African Progress
Chairman Osih and his delegation departed Abidjan on 13 April 2025, “galvanised by this fraternal experience” and “determined to carry the torch of political and economic liberation in Cameroon with strength and conviction.”
The SDF, which also coordinates the Progressive Alliance in Africa through its National Chairman, reiterated its “unwavering commitment to work alongside African progressive forces in building a free, strong, and united Africa — an Africa Of the peoples.”
