A new case has been brought before the Mezam High Court in Bamenda, North West region of Cameroon, targeting Reverend Nditemeh Charlemagne, Executive President of the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC), and John Yusimbum, Chairperson of the Convention. This development emerges less than 24 hours after the High Court of Mezam dismissed a similar case due to the withdrawal of the petitioners.
The petitioners, all Cameroon Baptist Convention Christians, are alleging constitutional manipulation by the top leaders of the church. Notably, the complainants include Taku Jacob of Nkwen Baptist Church, Luma Albert of Bethany Baptist Church, Buea, and Emi Emmanuel of Hope Baptist Church, Ndamukong. Luma Albert, who was involved in the previous withdrawn petition, remains a key figure in this renewed legal action.
Reverend Nditembe Charlemagne, addressing CBC Christians shortly after the recent court appearance, conveyed, “It is again my painful duty to inform you that almost immediately after the court dismissed the case, a new case was filed against CBC Executive President, CBC chairman, and the CBC.” He added, “The complaint is similar to the first case, still about the Cameroon Baptist Convention Constitution.”
The date for the upcoming hearing is yet to be determined, but Reverend Nditembe assured, “Once set, you will be informed.” Exuding confidence, he stated, “The handwriting on the God who saw us through on May 8, 2024, will see us through in the day(s) of the future court hearings.”
On Tuesday, May 8, 2024, Reverend Nditembe Charlemagne and Mr. John Yusimbum, accompanied by CBC Christians, appeared before the Mezam High Court. Tansah Jones Ndi, Samuel Bongajum (both of First Baptist Church Ndu), Luma Albert (Bethany Baptist Church Buea), and Emmanuel Tantoh of SCBC Ndu had previously brought the church leadership to court on an eight-count charge including illegality, unconstitutionality, breach of procedure, and illegal acts, among others.
However, upon the commencement of the case on Tuesday, May 8, the petitioners withdrew their charges, leading to the court discontinuing the hearing. In response, Reverend Nditemeh Charlemagne expressed gratitude to CBC Christians, stating, “Dear CBC Christians, thank you all for turning out in your numbers at the High Court of Mezam yesterday, May 8, 2024, for the hearing of the court case against CBC Executive President, CBC chairman, and the CBC.” He concluded, “Truth prevailed over evil, and the case was thrown out by the court.”
Since the general council of the church overwhelmingly voted to approve his proposed constitutional amendment, Reverend Nditemeh Charlemagne has been facing a leadership challenge. Dissatisfied church members, opposed to the amendment, opted for legal recourse, resulting in these successive legal battles.
(Picture credit: The Observer 237)
