SDF Blasts Trade Minister Over Controversial Rice Distribution

The Social Democratic Front (SDF) has strongly criticised what it describes as an act of “subjugation of the population” following a release by the Minister of Commerce, Luc Magloire Atangana.

The Minister’s January 11 statement, widely circulated on social media, called on militants of the ruling CPDM party in the Mefou and Afamba Division to buy a bag of rice for FCFA 15,000, which is almost half the market price.

The statement caused public discontent, given that rice prices skyrocketed to a record high over the past year amid a general rise in the cost of living.

The SDF has denounced this move as a blatant example of favouritism and manipulation.

The party claimed it reflects the predatory nature of the Biya regime, which has ruled Cameroon for over four decades.

The SDF party questioned why such a favour was limited to the people of Mefou and Afamba, to the exclusion of other regions like Diamaré, Mbere, Kadey, Ocean, Sanaga Maritime, and Koung-Khi.

“Is there more than one Cameroon? Are some citizens more deserving than others? Or are we creating second-class Cameroonians?” the SDF statement read.

It further questioned the legality and morality of a minister prioritising the interests of a specific region to the detriment of others.

The party described the move as an attempt to buy public support ahead of this year’s presidential elections.

SDF Accuses Regime of Economic Mismanagement

The SDFs’ reaction accused the regime of perpetuating economic mismanagement and social inequalities for 42 years.

It cited issues like food insecurity, corruption, unemployment, poor infrastructure, and tribalism as benchmarks of the regime.

“This time, it won’t work. We will no longer sell our votes for so little,” declared the SDF.

The party expressed its determination, through its Chairman Joshua Osih, to lead a movement for change.

The SDF’s political agenda prioritises food self-sufficiency, promising affordable access to staple foods like rice, cassava, potatoes, wheat, and plantains.

The party also pledged to create production clusters and ensure easier access to land, aiming to boost local agriculture and economic empowerment.

Calling for voter mobilisation, the SDF urged all Cameroonians to register for the upcoming elections, promising a “New Republic” based on justice, equality, and human dignity.