President Paul Biya has authorised extraordinary measures to extend a warm and distinguished reception to the College of Bishops of Cameroon, who are gathering in Buea for their 48th Annual Seminar.
Scheduled to take place from January 4 to January 11, 2025, in Buea, the seminar provides a platform for the bishops to deliberate on pressing socio-political and spiritual issues affecting the nation.
Presidential Directives and Preparations
According to authoritative sources, President Biya has issued specific instructions to Bernard Okalia Bilai, Governor of the South West Region, to ensure that the bishops receive exceptional hospitality during their stay.
Governor Bilai was actively on-site on Friday, January 3, 2025, conducting an appraisal of the preparations to welcome the ecclesiastical leaders.
One of the highlighted measures is the enhancement of security around the Bishops.
Round-the-clock protection has been assigned to special forces throughout the duration of the seminar.
Security personnel will station themselves at the bishops’ accommodations and other locations they plan to visit.
Presidential Gesture of Hospitality to Bishops
To underscore the significance of this seminar, the President has arranged a state dinner, which Governor Bilai will host on Sunday, January 3, 2025, at the prestigious Mountain Hotel.
This dinner will not only showcase the scenic beauty and cultural richness of the South West Region but also symbolize the government’s commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding with the Church.
Key Discussions and the Final Communiqué
As part of the program, Governor Bilai is expected to hold a closed-door session with the Bishops on Friday, January 10, 2025.
This meeting will involve discussions on various national issues and the drafting of the seminar’s final communiqué.
Traditionally, this communiqué encapsulates the Bishops’ collective perspectives on critical socio-political and spiritual matters.
However, the participation of the Governor in the drafting process raises questions about the potential influence on the Bishops’ stance.
Speculations suggest that the government’s involvement might be an attempt to steer the bishops’ position, particularly amidst growing calls for the Church to adopt a unified stance regarding President Biya’s anticipated bid for re-election.
Significance of Bishops’ Seminar
The Bishops’ Annual Seminar remains a crucial event for shaping national discourse, offering moral and ethical guidance on issues ranging from governance to social cohesion.
This year’s gathering in Buea holds particular significance due to the heightened socio-political tensions and the Church’s pivotal role in advocating for justice, peace, and transparency.
As the bishops deliberate, the nation will watch closely, anticipating resolutions that may not only reflect their spiritual leadership but also their moral courage in addressing the nation’s challenges.
