SNWOT Cautions Against Violence, Hate Speech Ahead of 2025 Election

The Southwest Northwest Women’s Task Force (SNWOT) has cautioned politicians against inciting violence and fanning the flames of hate as Cameroon approaches its 2025 presidential election.

In a proactive call for peace, SNWOT, which comprises over 70 women-led civil society organizations and individual leaders, is advocating for non-violent political conduct and inclusive dialogue to safeguard the electoral process.

Rising Tensions and Online Hate Speech

In a statement signed by SNWOT speaker Clotilda Andiensa Waah, the group expressed alarm over rising political tensions.

“The group, made up of over 70 women-led civil society organizations and individual women leaders operating in the conflict-affected North West and South West (NWSW) regions, expressed deep concern over the rising number of presidential candidates and the accompanying surge in online hate speech and political tension,” it said.

With 83 presidential aspirants submitting candidacy files to Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) last week, some candidates have faced online mockery and verbal attacks, raising fears of pre- and post-election violence.

SNWOT cautioned that such a volatile climate could exacerbate the ongoing armed conflict in the North West and South West regions, where over 6,000 lives have been lost since 2016.

“Further instability will only worsen the humanitarian crisis in our communities and undermine prospects for sustainable peace and development,” said Clotilda Andiensah, speaking on behalf of SNWOT.

Call for Peace and Responsible Politics

To avert violence, SNWOT outlined key recommendations for candidates, political parties, and stakeholders: Prioritize peace; reject hate speech and promote non-violent communication and engage in inclusive dialogue with women, youth, and marginalized groups to ensure their participation.

The group also asked stakeholders to support conflict resolution mechanisms to build trust and foster coexistence; address the unique needs of the NWSW regions, particularly for women and girls; ensure a safe and inclusive voting environment, especially in conflict zones.

The organization stressed the importance of a transparent and credible electoral process, urging ELECAM to address challenges specific to the Anglophone regions.

SNWOT also appealed to the United Nations, African Union, European Union, and international community to support dialogue between the government, opposition, and civil society to ensure a peaceful election.

“SNWOT reaffirms its commitment to peace, inclusion, and the protection of vulnerable communities during this critical national moment,” the organization stated.