President Biya Breaks Silence But Ignores Cameroon’s National Security

President Paul Biya has finally broken his silence. However, instead of addressing the tragic deaths of Cameroonian soldiers, he took to social media to extend Eid al-Fitr greetings to the Muslim community. “Happy Eid al-Fitr to all Muslims! Bonne Fête du Ramadan à l’ensemble de la Communauté Musulmane !” a message on his X and Facebook accounts read. This comes after he has ignored an urgent national security crisis for over a week.

His failure to acknowledge the recent loss of soldiers has led many to question whether he was conscious of what was happening in Cameroon. Just days ago, at least 12 Cameroonian soldiers were ambushed and killed by Boko Haram insurgents in Wulgo, a border town with Nigeria. Some reports indicate that at least 20 soldiers were killed. The attack, which took place on the night of March 24-25, has been widely condemned. In addition to widespread national condemnation, the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé also reacted.

“We stand with all Cameroonians as they mourn the loss of their fellow citizens,” the embassy said in a statement.

Yet, no word from Biya.

A Pattern of Neglect

This is not the first time Cameroonian soldiers have been killed without any acknowledgement from the head of state. In Bingo, a soldier was murdered, and several others were kidnapped, yet the presidency remained silent. In other instances, reports of soldiers dying on the battlefield have been met with indifference.

Political figures have expressed their frustration. Opposition leader Maurice Kamto lamented the state of the armed forces: “The resurgence of these deadly attacks by armed elements of Boko Haram must, as I have already said on more than one occasion, be of concern to the military high command. It is time for the political authorities to come up with appropriate solutions.”

Barrister Michèle Ndoki was even more direct in her criticism: “We must honour their memory not only with mourning but with action. We need to demand accountability, better leadership, and a real commitment to securing our nation.”

A Contrast to 2017

Biya’s silence today is in stark contrast to his reaction in 2017 when a small number of soldiers were killed in Manyu. Then, he swiftly returned from a foreign trip to address the nation and call for action. His immediate response signalled urgency and concern. Today, with a higher death toll and an increasingly volatile security situation, he remains absent from the conversation.

What Does This Mean for Cameroon?

Security analysts warn that Biya’s lack of response is demoralising for the armed forces. “A military that feels abandoned by its leadership is a weakened military,” said one expert. “Soldiers need to know that their sacrifices matter. Right now, they are being ignored.”

As families grieve their loved ones, they are left with questions. Why has the president not spoken? Why does he seem detached from the struggles of the soldiers who risk their lives daily for the country?

If Biya can take the time to wish the nation a happy holiday, he should also find time to honour the fallen heroes who died defending it. Anything less is a betrayal of their sacrifice.

Mimi Mefo Info