Paul Biya’s Call for Unity on Social Media: Are They Just Empty Slogans?
President Biya's statements have little meaning, when examined against the backdrop of Cameroon's fragmented reality
Over the past three days, President Paul Biya has taken to social media with rare frequency, sharing statements that emphasise unity, the indivisible nature of Cameroon, and the need to move beyond colonial-era divisions. His calls for national cohesion would have resonated with many Cameroonians had they been backed by practice. For example, there remains a striking gap between these lofty pronouncements and the harsh realities facing the nation. The escalating violence in the Anglophone regions and persistent attacks by the Boko Haram insurgency in the Far North, coupled with an astronomical rise in tribalism and xenophobia, raise significant questions.
“Our constant action has been and is to overcome the artificial divisions created by colonisation, to decolonise mentalities, to transcend the colonial past… to build and consolidate, with Cameroonians and for Cameroonians, a Cameroon that stands tall and jealous of its freedom.”
“Secession is not a project. Our past, present, and future sing the chorus of unity and call on us to permanently strengthen our national community.”
These statements, framed under the hashtag #OneAndIndivisible, present a vision of a unified and strong Cameroon, determined to overcome its colonial legacy and stand tall on the global stage. However, a critical examination reveals a significant disconnect between this rhetoric and the lived experiences of many Cameroonians.
Vision Versus Reality
These declarations are in line with a vision of “One and Indivisible” Cameroon, a slogan the government has often used in reference to the ongoing Anglophone crisis. Yet, on the ground, observers argue that this vision is undermined by daily reports of violence in the North West and South West Regions, where separatist groups have clashed with government forces since late 2017. Local NGOs report civilian casualties and widespread displacement, while international organisations have repeatedly called for inclusive dialogue.
Longstanding Silence
President Biya’s sudden wave of public statements is unusual for a leader often described as “silent” on national crises. He often makes limited public appearances and communicates minimally, relying instead on occasional televised speeches. Political commentators suggest this latest surge of messaging might be an attempt to project strength and unity at a time when multiple security and governance challenges threaten national stability.
“President Biya’s words about overcoming colonial divisions ring hollow when so many Anglophone citizens feel marginalised and threatened,” a civil society activist from Bamenda told MMI. “We want peace and unity too, but we also want our voices heard, and we want an end to the violence.”
Calls for Transparency and Action
Many Cameroonians are now calling on the government to back these statements of unity with concrete measures. Some say they do not even understand what they mean.
They urge transparent investigations into civilian and military casualties, the pursuit of dialogue in the Anglophone regions, and a more robust strategy to combat the Boko Haram threat.
“One and indivisible or unity is not words or phrases. It’s neither gotten by marginalisation nor the barrel of the gun. We can only wish for that through genuine dialogue and reconciliation,” Emmanuel Kecha said.
International partners, including the African Union and the United Nations, have repeatedly encouraged Cameroon to engage in meaningful discussions that address the grievances of marginalised communities. Critics assert that without genuine efforts to reconcile differences, Biya’s appeals to national pride and unity will remain largely symbolic.
Boko Haram’s Resurgence: A Security Vacuum?
Boko Haram insurgents killed at least 12 Cameroonian soldiers in Wulgo, near the border with Nigeria, just days ago, adding to the country’s challenges. Security analysts note that the Far North region remains vulnerable despite years of military engagement. The president’s critics highlight that Biya—who has led Cameroon for more than four decades—rarely addresses such security breaches directly or provides reassurance to affected communities.
Furthermore, the recent killing raises serious questions about the government’s ability to ensure national security. Biya’s silence on this incident, coupled with his general lack of public engagement on security matters, fuels concerns about a leadership vacuum and a disconnect from the realities faced by the military and civilians in the Far North region. The ongoing instability and the perception of government inaction undermine his claim of a “respected and credible” international standing.
“Decolonising Mentalities”: A Hollow Slogan?
When considering the government’s perceived authoritarian tendencies and its suppression of dissent, Biya’s emphasis on “decolonising mentalities” appears hollow. Critics argue that the government’s response to the Anglophone crisis, characterised by military force and a refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue, reflects a continuation of colonial-era tactics rather than a genuine effort to address historical grievances.
A Question of Credibility
The president’s sudden burst of social media activity raises questions about its timing and purpose. Some observers suggest it may be an attempt to project an image of strength and control amidst growing internal and external pressures. Others see it as a desperate attempt to shore up support and deflect criticism.
Biya’s rhetoric of unity and national strength faces judgement based on the realities of Cameroon. While he calls for a unified nation, the country remains deeply divided, grappling with violent conflict and a perceived lack of government responsiveness. Until the president addresses the root causes of these crises and demonstrates a genuine commitment to dialogue and reconciliation, his words will continue to ring hollow for many Cameroonians.