In the wake of mounting unrest following Cameroon’s October 12 presidential elections, Omam Esther, Eringo Cha Ekombo, renowned peace advocate and Executive Director of Reach Out Cameroon, has made a stirring appeal for calm, dialogue, and national unity.
In a statement titled “On the Post-Election Violence in Cameroon,” the Global Peace Champion called on all Cameroonians to rise above anger and division, warning that the nation stands at a critical crossroads. “No political ambition is worth the tears of another Cameroonian,” she declared, voicing deep concern over reports of violence and unrest across several regions.
“We do not want our country to bleed,” Omam Esther said. “We do not want that which was once celebrated as ‘Africa in Miniature’ to become a source of sorrow and regret before the world.”
Her words echo a growing sentiment among civil society groups and peace advocates urging restraint as allegations of electoral irregularities spark protests and clashes in parts of the country.
A Call for Responsible Leadership
Omam Esther’s statement challenges both political leaders and institutions to rise to the occasion, stressing the need for “responsible and responsive leadership” that listens to citizens’ grievances and takes concrete steps to rebuild trust.
She posed pointed questions to the nation’s conscience: “Did we stand up to the call of fairness and transparency?”, what were the causes and responsibilities behind the irregularities and tensions observed?, how do we rebuild public trust and credibility in our institutions?”.
These, she said, are not questions of politics but of principle questions every Cameroonian should be asking if peace and democracy are to prevail.
Rejecting Violence, Embracing Dialogue
As scenes of confrontation between protesters and security forces continue to circulate online, Omam Esther urged all sides to refrain from violence, provocation, and destruction, warning that such actions only deepen national wounds.
“Violence only divides communities; it never delivers justice,” she said. “Only through dialogue can we restore confidence, heal our divisions, and move forward as one nation.”
Her call resonates with the mission of Reach Out Cameroon, the Buea-based organization she leads, which has spent decades promoting peacebuilding, gender equity, and social cohesion in conflict-affected communities.
A Message of Unity and Hope
In her concluding words, Omam Esther appealed to Cameroonians’ shared identity and sense of belonging: “Let it be known that no one loves this country more than the other. We are all sons and daughters of Cameroon bound by a shared destiny and a collective duty to protect our homeland. Let history remember that in the face of anger, we chose peace.”
Ending her message with a personal reflection, she stated, “I am a daughter of Cameroon.” She reaffirmed her lifelong commitment to peace and the belief that unity remains the nation’s greatest strength.
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