Yaoundé: Security forces outnumber civilians along major streets

The city seems to be a replica of Fort Knox on this day. Every major intersection of the town is been crowded with elements of the forces of law and order.

Ranging from groups of 2, 6 and 12, some aboard armoured mini-trucks, and others on foot, these police men and gendarmes are armed to the teeth with anti-riot shields, helmets, whips, semi-automatic pistols and rifles.

Gazes are cast upon them by civilians who are going about their activities as fear, anxiety and worry looms in the air. One is tempted to think that the nation is at the brink of an imminent war.

From Poste Centrale to Melen, Vogt passing through Nsimeyong, Damase and Biyem-Assi, the tempo is rising. Suspicion abounds. The looks on people’s faces is enough to let anyone know that something is amiss.

And what caused this mood? A statement. A little statement from Professor Maurice Kamto, chairman of the CRM party, calling all and sundry to take to the streets come September 22 in a bid to oust President Paul Biya from power.

Secondary sources suggest that as one of the preemptive measures taken by government to put a definite halt on the protests, internet bandwidth within some strategic towns such as Buea, Yaoundé, Douala and Bamenda have been reduced.

However, all fingers are crossed. Next week promises to be pregnant with events. And the million dollar question on one too many a lip is, what will happen on September 22?.

Mimi Mefo Info