Separatists Issue Threats Against Biya’s Film Premiere in Bamenda

Ambazonia separatist fighters in Bamenda, headquarters of the North West region, have issued threats against the projection of a documentary celebrating President Paul Biya’s 41-year stay in power this Saturday, October 26.

In a viral video released Friday, October 25, the Ambazonia State Army, ASA, a separatist militia, said they have ‘banned’ any political gathering in Bamenda.

“This is ASA, the fighters on the ground. We have come today with one announcement against October 26. No careless gathering in town for the CPDM politics. It will be at your own risk to gather,” a male voice is overheard in the video.

North West is the ninth region to host the film premiere.

The Regional Assembly has been preparing for the premiere since early this month.

Prior to the event, the President of the North West House of Chiefs, Fon Yakum kelvin Teuvih, urged traditional rulers to mobilize their subjects and also to attend the event.

The call has attracted criticisms from citizens who are increasingly uncomfortable with traditional rulers’ involvement in politics.

The premiere of Biya’s documentary has taken place hitch-free in French-speaking regions of the country, unlike in the Anglophone regions where separatists have been fighting against the government since 2017.

It should be recalled that On September 19, 2024, a convoy transporting members of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) party from Meme Division for the film projection in Buea was attacked by alleged separatist fighters in Muea around 1 pm.

The documentary premiere nevertheless was successful, and pulled a large crowd.