A progressive wing of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon, which identifies itself as Truth House, has congratulated the election of the new Moderator, Rev Miki Hans Abia.
The group, consisting of 15 bona fide Presbyterians, rose to fame this year after picking holes on the leadership of the outgoing Moderator, Rt. Rev. Fonki Samuel Forba.
They attributed Rev. Abia’s election as the PCC’s 7th Moderator to divine intervention amidst concerns about election irregularities.
Rev Miki Hans, the current Synod Clerk of the PCC, received overwhelming support from the PCC Synod in Buea on November 18. Rev Ayuk Solomon Eta was also voted in as Synod Clerk-elect.
Prior to the elections, Truth House released several statements alleging constitutional violations by outgoing Moderator, Rt Rev Fonki Samuel. They called for an overhaul of the elections and the resignation of the Moderator.
However, after the elections, they expressed optimism about the new leadership but highlighted the challenges it faces in rebuilding the PCC’s image.
Allegations of Election Manipulations
While celebrating Rev. Abia’s victory, Truth House criticized the election process for the Synod Clerk, citing unfair disqualification of candidates.
They urged immediate action to tackle the issues raised during the elections, stressing the need to prioritise healing and unity.
Rev Mokoko Mbue Thomas, Rev Mokoko Simon Elive, and Rev Ayuk Solomon Eta contested for the Synod Clerk position.
Rev Mokoko Mbue faced elimination at the preliminary stage of the election, while Rev Mokoko Simon chose to withdraw from the race just an hour before voting began.
Challenges Facing the New Leadership
According to the Truth House, the outgoing administration, led by Moderator Fonki, was plagued with corruption, embezzlement, and moral failures.
Among these allegations are mismanagement of church funds, disparities in reported costs of church projects, sexual misconduct within pastoral training institutions, and favoritism in pastoral postings.
Truth House urged the new administration to confront these issues and work to restore trust within the church.
A Call for Accountability
As the outgoing administration prepares to step down in January 2025, Truth House calls for transparency and accountability.
They also warned against attempts to influence or undermine the new leadership, advocating for sweeping reforms to restore the church’s integrity.
Rev. Miki Hans Abia emerged as the elected Moderator through a contentious process filled with criticism and challenges to the church’s leadership.
He served as Synod Clerk for five years before his election. Rev. Ayuk Solomon Eta serves as the Synod Clerk-elect.
Rev. Miki Hans Abia’s election marks a pivotal moment for the PCC.
The focus now shifts to how his administration will tackle the challenges and foster unity among clergy and members of the church.
