The Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, issued a stern warning to opposition leaders and civil society figures against causing tensions that can disrupt peace and security.
He gave the warning Wednesday, December 18, while opening the biannual governors’ conference.
The two-day event, which aims to bolster strategies for maintaining peace and security, takes place amid preparations for the 2025 elections.
Speaking to regional governors, the minister emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance stance towards any actions that could disrupt public order.
“Force will remain with the law. Measures will be taken to track and neutralize those who make defiance of authority their favorite pastime,” Atanga Nji stated.
Tensions with Opposition and Civil Society
Atanga Nji’s remarks come amid rising tensions with key figures.
These include Maurice Kamto, leader of the Movement for the Renaissance of Cameroon (MRC), and Alice Nkom, a prominent human rights lawyer and head of the Network for the Defense of Human Rights in Central Africa (REDHAC).
Kamto has been vocal in his criticism of the Ministry of Territorial Administration, accusing it of overstepping its boundaries.
He recently described the ministry’s actions as “vulgar” and “ignorant of legal frameworks.”
He cited instances of what he claims to be targeted harassment of political opposition.
Alice Nkom has also been at the forefront of challenging the ministry’s decisions.
The ministry’s suspension of REDHAC’s operations for three months has sparked significant backlash.
In a defiant move, Nkom removed the seals placed on REDHAC’s offices, declaring the suspension “senseless and illegal.”
“President Paul Biya must intervene to stop his Minister of Territorial Administration if he wants peace and democratic elections in 2025,” Nkom stated.
Ensuring Security Ahead of Elections
With the 2025 elections on the horizon, Atanga Nji stressed the importance of proactive measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process.
He urged governors to work closely with defense and security forces to neutralize any potential threats.
The conference is expected to conclude with a detailed strategy to address challenges, including political unrest, public protests, and calls for electoral reforms by opposition parties.
Uncertainty Looms
As the political climate in Cameroon grows tense, the government appears determined to clamp down on any dissent.
However, critics argue that these measures could stifle freedoms and heighten public discontent.
The coming months will likely test the resilience of Cameroon’s political and administrative systems.
Both the government and opposition leaders are vying for influence in a pivotal election year.
