Barrister Michele Ndoki took to social media yesterday, on the 34th anniversary of the Social Democratic Front (SDF), to pay tribute to the party’s founder, John Fru Ndi, and the six young Cameroonians who lost their lives in the struggle for multipartism.
Ndoki began by honouring the seminal moment on May 26, 1990, when John Fru Ndi launched the SDF, ushering in a new era in Cameroon’s political landscape by reintroducing multipartism. This courageous act came at a high cost, as six young Cameroonians—Edwing Jatop Nfon, Evariste Toje Chatum, Fidelis Chosi Mankam Fombi Asanji, Juliette Sikod, and Mathias Tifuh Teboh—lost their lives during the historic march.
Ndoki’s message traced the history of the SDF, highlighting the sacrifices made in 1990 and referencing President Paul Biya’s eventual acceptance of a multi-party system. However, her tone shifted as she questioned whether Cameroon is truly ready for “peaceful, transparent, and fair competition” today. Ndoki recalled President Paul Biya’s acknowledgment during the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) congress from June 28-30, 1990: “le RDPC doit se préparer désormais à une éventuelle concurrence” (“the CPDM must now prepare for potential competition”). This admission marked a significant shift in the political dynamics of Cameroon.
Thirty-four years later, Ndoki expressed frustration that true competition remains elusive. “34 years gone, and they are still not ready for peaceful, transparent, and fair competition. Are we?” she questioned, urging a collective reflection on the readiness for genuine democratic engagement.
Ndoki’s message also conveyed deep sympathy to the families of those who sacrificed their lives for a better Cameroon. “We share your grief and hope; your loved ones did not die in vain,” she affirmed. She extended her gratitude to John Fru Ndi, acknowledging his enduring legacy and the blessings upon his soul and emphasising his continued importance to the party.
She concluded with a powerful call to unity: “It is time we choose us over them,” followed by the rallying cry “Kamerun, Ekombo’a Mwaye” (Cameroon, Let’s Go Forward Together).
Ndoki’s message comes amidst ongoing political tensions in Cameroon. The SDF is one of the main opposition parties, and her words are likely to resonate with many Cameroonians who yearn for a more democratic and unified nation. Her message resonates as both a tribute to the past and a clarion call for the future. Her words remind Cameroonians of the sacrifices made and the continuous effort required to achieve a truly democratic society.
