As Cameroonians usher in the New Year, prominent human rights advocate and President of the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA), Barrister Nkongho Felix Agbor Balla, has called for a decisive shift from political promises to tangible action, stressing collective responsibility as the cornerstone of national progress.
In a New Year statement issued under the banner Agbor Balla Speaks (ABS), on Thursday DecJanuary 1, 2026, Agbor Balla reflected on the President’s traditional address to the nation on December 31, which once again highlighted themes of national unity, peace, economic recovery, youth empowerment, and shared responsibility.
While acknowledging the importance of these aspirations, Agbor Balla emphasized that millions of Cameroonians continue to grapple daily with economic hardship, insecurity, and limited opportunities.
“Cameroonians are not merely asking for words; they are yearning for impact,” Balla stated.
According to him, unity must go beyond speeches and be felt in the everyday lives of citizens, while peace should be measured by justice, inclusion, and dignity not by silence or fear.
The civic rights advocate, underscored that economic recovery must translate into concrete improvements, job creation, reliable electricity and water supply, accessible healthcare, and meaningful opportunities for the youth. He warned that repeatedly describing young people as the “backbone of the nation” without empowering them risks further alienation. “Cameroon’s future cannot be postponed indefinitely; it is already knocking,” he said.
With the country approaching what he described as a politically sensitive year, Barrister Agbor Balla issued a call for responsible leadership and accountable governance, respect for fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, inclusive dialogue, and a peaceful national climate where citizens can participate freely without fear.
While often critical of state institutions, he stressed that national progress is not the responsibility of government alone. Citizens, civil society organizations, institutions, and leaders at all levels, he argued, must contribute sincerely to rebuilding trust through a renewed social contract anchored in accountability and empathy.
Reaffirming the mission of Agbor Balla Speaks, he pledged continued commitment to speaking truth, inspiring action, and amplifying citizen voices. “Cameroon’s strength lies not in power, but in its people,” he noted.
As the nation steps into 2026, Agbor Balla expressed hope that the year would mark a turning point one where promises give way to progress and leadership is guided by service rather than rhetoric.
“Our Voice. Our Power. Our Future,” the statement concluded.
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