The Social Democratic Front (SDF) has unveiled a mausoleum honoring its late founding chairman, Ni John Fru Ndi. The solemn ceremony took place on Saturday, December 14, 2024, in his hometown of Baba II, Santa, Mezam Division. Family members, SDF militants, clergy, sympathisers, and administrative authorities attended the event.
Ni John Fru Ndi, who passed away at the age of 82 in June 2023, was the pioneering leader of the SDF, a key opposition political party in Cameroon. Over a year after his death, the tomb erected on his grave symbolizes his enduring legacy as a leader who significantly shaped Cameroon’s political landscape.
A National Monument
Speaking during the ceremony, Osih Joshua, National Chairman of the SDF and Fru Ndi’s successor, described the tomb as a national monument and a site of pilgrimage for both Cameroon and the African continent.
“The Cameroonian nation and the entire continent of Africa needed a point of pilgrimage to come and bow down in front of our hero, Ni John Fru Ndi. And today, this is done,” Osih Joshua told reporters in Baba II.
He emphasized the importance of the mausoleum as a public space.
“With the commissioning of this tomb, we now have a place we can go to. I asked the children to understand that this place is not a family or private site; it is a national monument. When conditions permit and peace returns, people will come here to pay homage to a man who contributed greatly to peace, justice, and democracy in this country,” he said.
Tribute from Joshua Osih
Osih, who served as Vice Chairman of the SDF under Fru Ndi, succeeded him shortly after his passing. He spoke about the privilege of receiving mentorship from the late leader.
“I recognize how privileged I was all these years, being close to him, guided by him, and receiving advice from such a mighty personality,” Osih said.
He added that Fru Ndi’s influence transcends his physical presence.
“The guidance still goes on because when the spirit is big, that guidance is not limited to a geographical area. Wherever you find yourself and look up to him, he shows you the way.”
Osih further highlighted the late chairman’s contributions.
“Myself, the SDF, and Cameroon are privileged to have had a son like Ni John Fru Ndi,” he said.
Father of Modern Democracy
Fru Ndi is remembered for his bravery in launching the SDF in 1990, defying a government ban. His efforts forced the regime to relent, paving the way for multiparty politics in Cameroon. A fierce critic of President Biya’s regime, Fru Ndi contested presidential and Senate elections but often accused the government of fraud and election rigging.
Supporters celebrate him as a national hero, recognising his impact more fully after his passing.
“Unfortunately, in this world, people only truly understand the nature of our heroes after they are gone. It is the same today for the martyrs of the UPC, the ANC, and Ni John Fru Ndi,” Osih remarked.
He continued, “Many people criticized him during his lifetime, but when he passed, the same people called me in tears. I can guarantee you those were not crocodile tears; they were genuine. That is the greatness of a person.”
Ni John Fru Ndi’s legacy as a champion of democracy, justice, and peace continues to inspire Cameroonians and beyond.
