In a bold move to combat the economic disruption caused by “Operation Monday Ghost Town,” the newly appointed Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) of Fako, Viang Mekala, has banned all leisure activities on Mondays. Announced on February 17th, this directive aims to ensure that Mondays remain dedicated workdays, countering the separatist-imposed shutdown observed in the region.
Operation Monday Ghost Town, a tactic employed by separatist groups amidst the ongoing Anglophone crisis, calls for civil disobedience on Mondays, effectively halting business activities. This has led many residents to shift their leisure activities to Mondays, further impacting the already strained economy.
Mekala’s predecessor, Chaibou, along with prominent figures like the late Ekema Patrick Esunge, had previously attempted to eradicate the practice without success. However, Mekala’s approach directly targets leisure activities, hoping to incentivize residents to return to their regular work routines on Mondays.
The decision comes with a backdrop of severe consequences faced by those who defy the ghost town regulations. Businesses operating on designated shutdown days have been reportedly destroyed without compensation from authorities, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Mekala’s initiative marks a determined effort to address the economic and social challenges posed by Operation Monday Ghost Town in Fako Division. While its effectiveness remains to be seen, it signifies a willingness to explore new strategies to navigate the complexities of the ongoing crisis.
