As Cameroon braces for the October 12 presidential election, one of the North West Region’s most influential lawmakers is taking no chances with peace. Hon. Barrister Ta Nformi Ngala Gerard Ndombang, MP for Nkambe and respected peace crusader, has warned that Douala could once again become a flashpoint for political violence if communities let their guard down.
On Sunday, September 14, Hon. Ngala spearheaded what is now being hailed as a “historic peace pact” between thousands of Northwesterners living in Douala and the Ngondo community.
The event, part of the Ngondo Peace Caravan, drew a massive crowd at the Din Same Esplanade in Bonassama, Douala IV Subdivision, with traditional rulers, political leaders, and grassroots mobilizers joining forces to stave off potential unrest.
Investigative Angle: Pre-Election Douala on High Alert
Security experts and local authorities have privately expressed fears that Douala with its dense, politically diverse population could be used as a stage for street protests or riots by groups seeking to delegitimize the polls. The city was the epicenter of deadly riots in 2008, sparked by a mix of political frustration and economic hardship, leaving dozens dead.
Hon. Ngala Gerard’s speech directly addressed these concerns:
“History reminds us that some adventurers, in the name of politics, have tried to use Douala as fertile ground for violence and civil disobedience aimed at undermining public peace. The memories of 2008 remain vivid. Today, I plead with you: let us not be counted among those who betray their hosts or associate with forces of destruction. Instead, let us stand for peace before, during, and after the October 12 elections.”
Analysts say this is more than rhetoric, it’s a warning that some political operators may already be plotting disruption as part of an electoral strategy.
500,000 Northwesterners Could Be Key to Stability
With over half a million Northwesterners now living in Douala, many displaced by the Anglophone crisis, Hon. Ngala’s call carries weight. His appeal to “preserve and promote the peace, love, and solidarity” enjoyed under the hospitality of the Ngondo community is both a gesture of gratitude and a security strategy.
“If this bloc of voters and residents remains calm, it significantly lowers the risk of large-scale violence in the city,” a security source told Laarry Times. “But if it fractures along political or tribal lines, Douala could erupt.”
HRM Mbappe Bwanga Mylord, Acting President, Ngondo community
Ngondo Leaders and City Mayor Join the Call
The Acting President of the Ngondo community, HRM Mbappe Bwanga Mylord, was equally blunt in his message, read by HRM Jamil Songwe, Chief of Bakoko Wouri:
“Without peace, there is no future, no prosperity, no happiness. With peace, children go to school, markets flourish, businesses grow, and dreams become reality. Before the electoral period of 2025 opens, we must loudly and clearly refuse division, reject hatred, and condemn violence.”
Douala IV Mayor Dr. Hervé Moby Mpah praised the initiative, stressing that the city’s reputation as a safe haven for migrants from the North West and South West Regions must be protected.
Culture Meets Security Strategy
Beyond speeches, the event turned into a vibrant cultural celebration, with traditional dances, music, and displays symbolizing unity. Organizers say such public rituals of solidarity are a deliberate tool to counter rumours, propaganda, and manipulation that often flare up before elections.
Observers believe Hon. Ngala’s intervention could help avert a repeat of past crises but warn that words must be backed by action, community vigilance, and rapid-response systems in case of provocation.
Comments
Post a Comment