Five years after the passing of Mayor Ekema Patrick Esunge, the city of Buea finds itself at a pivotal juncture. With comparisons being made between the late mayor and the current one, David Mafani Namange, the stakes could not be higher.
Once known for its structured municipal approach under Ekema’s controversial yet impactful leadership, Buea today grapples with various civic and infrastructural challenges, raising questions about the current administration’s ability to meet the needs of its people.
Residents look back on Ekema’s bold governance, weighing his legacy against the current state of the city under Mayor Barrister David Mafani Namange.
Ekema Patrick Esunge: The Legacy of a Controversial Reformer
Ekema Patrick Esunge, who passed away on October 27, 2019, left an imprint on Buea that few would contest.
Known for his strong stance against separatist incursions during the Anglophone Crisis, Ekema prioritized security by installing street lights across Buea, a move that residents say reduced crime and provided a sense of safety.
His efforts to combat separatist activities and keep socio-economic activities active were seen as necessary steps during a period of regional unrest.
Traditional leaders, who awarded him the honorary title of “Nyamoto Kpwatolo,” recognized his unyielding commitment to unity and stabilityIn addition to his security initiatives, Ekema championed projects that sought to modernize Buea’s infrastructure.
He facilitated the construction of shops and launched efforts to expand municipal boundaries, setting the stage for growth that continues to benefit local business owners today.
His tenure, however, was not without criticism. Many accused him of taking heavy-handed measures against dissenters and being overly ambitious in his political maneuvers.
Nevertheless, Ekema’s legacy as a “controversial reformer” remains a prominent chapter in Buea’s history.
Current Challenges Under Mayor David Mafani Namange
Under Mayor Namange, residents are raising concerns about the city’s visible decline in civic standards.
The once well-lit streets of Buea are now dark, with street and traffic lights in disrepair. This lack of basic infrastructure, coupled with inadequate road infrastructure, has led to increased road congestion, particularly in high-traffic areas like Molyko, leaving residents frustrated with the apparent lack of urban planning.
A human rights lawyer, Barrister Edward Lyonga expressed his disappointment, highlighting the lack of waste management and the accumulation of garbage across the city.
“Buea, once considered the cleanest town in Cameroon, is now littered with dirt everywhere,” Lyonga lamented, adding that key projects, such as the Bakweri Town bridge rehabilitation, have been abandoned.
Barrister Edward Lyonga , went further to say, “This is the worst administration we’ve seen in over half a century. Buea deserves better. Our roads remain dilapidated, dirt piles up, and the disorder in Molyko overwhelms us.
Shungmo Amos, another resident, voiced frustration over the deteriorating infrastructure.
“How can Buea draw people in with such poor road conditions?” Buea faces decline, and without prompt action, it will lead to a real disaster.
Impact of IDPs
Some argue that the influx of internally displaced persons strains resources, particularly waste management.
Separatist groups damaged several garbage trucks, worsening the waste issue.
“The mayor faces limitations, but he ensures employees receive salaries and benefits,” Step Joe stated, urging understanding of the city’s complex challenges under current conditions.
In stark contrast, Evella Kange voiced dissatisfaction with the overall quality of life in Buea, noting, “Dirt is everywhere, water is scarce, and electricity supply is unreliable. This is not the city we once knew.”
Ayuketta Tabi Emmanuel urged the council to focus on infrastructure development, suggesting new routes to ease traffic congestion, such as linking Muea to Great Soppo and other areas.
As Buea remembers Ekema Patrick Esunge’s contributions, many residents hope that Mayor Namange will rise to the challenge of restoring the city’s former reputation.
The current administration faces a decisive moment; meeting the needs of the community requires immediate and visible action to improve security, urban planning, and waste management.
With the right approach, Mayor Namange could potentially bridge the gap between Ekema’s legacy and the demands of today’s Buea, ensuring the city’s future aligns with the community’s aspirations.
