Cameroon’s longtime President, Paul Biya, has once again emphasized the importance of peace as the foundation of national stability and progress. Speaking during a recent address, Biya declared that “our most precious asset is peace,” urging citizens to unite behind the shared goal of safeguarding the country from conflict and division.
A Familiar Message
Now in his 43rd year of power, Paul Biya has consistently placed peace at the center of his political narrative. For decades, he has argued that Cameroon’s diversity—linguistic, cultural, and regional—makes peace both fragile and vital. By invoking peace as the nation’s “most precious asset,” Biya reaffirmed his long-standing message that stability must come before any other form of development.
“Without peace, there is no security, no progress, no future,” Biya told citizens. “It is our collective responsibility to protect this treasure that binds us together.”
Peace in a Time of Tension
Biya’s remarks come at a time when Cameroon continues to face multiple internal challenges. The Anglophone crisis in the Northwest and Southwest regions remains unresolved, with sporadic clashes between separatist fighters and government forces. Additionally, the northern regions grapple with the lingering threat of Boko Haram and other extremist groups.
For many citizens, peace is not just an abstract concept—it is a daily necessity. Ordinary Cameroonians living in conflict-affected regions often express fatigue with violence and a longing for normalcy. Biya’s words therefore resonate, though critics argue that his government’s policies have not always aligned with his promises of peace.
Reactions from the Public
Supporters of the president welcomed his statement, praising him as a leader who has kept Cameroon relatively stable in a volatile region. They highlight the fact that, despite security challenges, the country has avoided the scale of chaos seen in some neighboring nations.
However, opposition voices were quick to respond, accusing Biya of using the rhetoric of peace to deflect from deeper governance issues. Critics argue that peace cannot be sustained without addressing inequality, corruption, and political exclusion. For them, Biya’s speech is a reminder of his long tenure in power, rather than a roadmap for meaningful reconciliation.
The Broader Meaning of Peace
Analysts note that Biya’s framing of peace as the nation’s “most precious asset” carries symbolic weight. It appeals to a collective identity, urging citizens to prioritize unity over division. Yet, in practice, achieving lasting peace requires more than words. It involves dialogue, justice, and reforms that address the root causes of unrest.
Civil society groups have echoed this sentiment, calling for inclusive talks and a more participatory political process. Religious leaders and community organizations continue to advocate for grassroots peacebuilding efforts, emphasizing reconciliation and mutual understanding.
Conclusion
Paul Biya’s message reflects both the aspiration and the challenge facing Cameroon. Peace is indeed the nation’s most valuable treasure, but preserving it demands sustained effort, open dialogue, and trust between the people and their leaders.
As Cameroon navigates its complex political future, Biya’s declaration serves as both a reminder and a test: will the country safeguard its “most precious asset,” or will divisions continue to strain its fragile stability?