Human Rights Lawyer and President of the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa, Felix Agbor Nkongho, popularly known as Agbor Balla, says it is time for Anglophones to have different leaders.
“Leaders who will challenge economic neglect and advocate for transformative projects like the Limbe seaport,” he said.
In a Facebook post questioning the silence of elected Anglophone leaders on critical issues, Agbor Balla highlighted the economic stagnation plaguing the Northwest and Southwest regions.
According to him, incomplete projects, the failure to construct the Limbe deep seaport, and a lack of economic opportunities are clear indications of leadership failure.
“What is the essence of having leaders who do not lead? If Anglophone leaders cannot speak for their people, then who will? The time has come for new voices to emerge,” he stated.
While speculations abound that the Human Rights Lawyer might be considering a political career, he did not suggest specific replacements for the current leaders. However, he insists that Anglophones need leaders who will not remain silent in the face of economic stagnation.
To him, Anglophones require leaders who are “courageous, bold, and unapologetic in their representation, just as seen in other regions of Cameroon.”
Inspired by the Situation in the Far North
Balla envisions leaders capable of speaking truth to power, regardless of their affiliation with the ruling party.
He cited an example from the Far North, where CPDM-elected leaders compelled the Secretary-General at the Presidency, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, to stay and listen to their grievances.
“Anglophone leaders should take a leaf from their counterparts in the Far North Region,” he said.
Selfish Interests Over Regional Development
Agbor Balla believes that Anglophone leaders prioritise their positions over the needs of the people.
“In Cameroon’s political landscape, the question of legitimate representation for Anglophones remains unresolved. Can the current Anglophone political leaders genuinely claim to speak for the people they represent? If so, why is their silence deafening on critical development issues, such as the Limbe deep seaport?” he questioned.
To him, their inability—or unwillingness—to advocate for regional interests starkly contrasts with the assertiveness of elected officials from other regions, such as the Far North.
Anglophone Cameroon, he says, has long suffered from political and economic marginalization. Yet, those who claim to represent the region—whether mayors, parliamentarians, regional assembly members, senators, or government-appointed officials—rarely challenge the status quo.
“Anglophone leaders remain passive on issues of fundamental importance. Small wonder that they are indifferent towards the realization of the Limbe deep seaport, a project that would transform the economic fortunes of the Southwest and Northwest regions.”
What to Expect from Leaders
He emphasises that the seaport holds immense potential for job creation, trade, and regional development, yet Anglophone leaders seem incapable of demanding action.
“The silence of Anglophone political leaders in the face of economic stagnation, broken promises, and delayed projects suggests that many are more focused on protecting their positions than advocating for their people,” he noted.
To him, these leaders appear content with their positions while the region remains trapped in economic stagnation.
“Some may have grown complacent, prioritising personal benefits over the collective good. Worse still, some may be complicit in the systemic neglect, content with symbolic representation while avoiding real advocacy. Whatever the reason, their inaction sends a clear message,” he stated.
He argues that Anglophones cannot rely on these leaders to champion their interests.
“The people must instead take ownership of their destiny by demanding accountability, supporting leaders who prioritise development, and pushing for a new political class that will not shy away from defending regional interests.”
The Way Forward
Beyond calling for a change in leadership, Felix Agbor Nkongho insists that Anglophones must demand more from their representatives.
He urges them to challenge those in power to act rather than remain silent, support leaders who show courage, and reject complacency.
“It is time to demand real advocacy for long-promised projects and meaningful development,” he concluded
