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Cabral Libii’s Message from Bamenda

During a recent visit to Bamenda, a stronghold of Cameroon’s Anglophone regions, presidential candidate Cabral Libii addressed the ongoing crisis affecting the Northwest and Southwest regions. Libii firmly stated that “the solution to the Anglophone crisis is not military”, advocating instead for dialogue, political reforms, and inclusive governance.

His visit highlights the importance of engaging directly with communities most affected by the conflict and understanding their grievances firsthand.

Criticism of Military Solutions

Libii criticized the heavy-handed approach that has dominated the government’s response to the Anglophone crisis over the past several years. Military interventions, according to him, have failed to restore lasting peace and have often exacerbated tensions between communities and the state.

He emphasized that long-term peace requires addressing the root causes of the conflict, including:

• Marginalization of English-speaking regions
• Inequitable resource distribution
• Lack of effective local governance
• Limited participation in national decision-making

Advocating Dialogue and Political Reform

Cabral Libii called for inclusive dialogue involving all stakeholders, including civil society, traditional leaders, and separatist groups willing to engage in negotiations. He stressed that sustainable solutions must go beyond ceasefires and military operations, focusing instead on policies that guarantee equality, representation, and development in the Anglophone regions.

Libii also proposed reforms to ensure decentralization and local governance, giving communities more control over their affairs while remaining part of a united Cameroon.

Public Reception

Libii’s visit was met with a mixture of hope and cautious optimism. Many residents welcomed his emphasis on peaceful solutions and genuine engagement, expressing fatigue with ongoing conflict and insecurity. However, skepticism remains high among those who have experienced decades of marginalization and feel let down by previous political promises.

The Path Forward

The Anglophone crisis continues to challenge Cameroon’s political stability and social cohesion. Libii’s approach suggests that dialogue, reconciliation, and structural reforms may offer a more effective path to peace than continued military intervention.

As Cameroon approaches future elections, addressing the concerns of the Anglophone population will be crucial not only for national unity but also for the legitimacy of any government that seeks to lead the country forward.

Conclusion

Cabral Libii’s statement in Bamenda reinforces the idea that the resolution of the Anglophone crisis requires political solutions, not military force. His advocacy for dialogue and reform represents a shift toward inclusive approaches that prioritize the well-being and participation of all Cameroonians, particularly those in the English-speaking regions.

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