Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya advocates for direct talks between the Cameroonian government and separatist fighters to achieve sustainable peace. The crisis began in 2016 due to grievances from English-speaking regions, leading to significant violence and displacement. Although some progress has been made following the Major National Dialogue, experts caution against neglecting underlying issues that could lead to future conflict.
Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya of Cameroon’s Bamenda archdiocese has emphasized the necessity of direct dialogues between the national government and separatists in the English-speaking regions of Cameroon for achieving lasting peace. His remarks were made during a meeting in Yaoundé to evaluate the advancement of resolutions from the Major National Dialogue held from September 29 to October 4, aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis.
The Archbishop highlighted that separatist fighters perceive a lack of genuine commitment from the government in solving the crisis. He stated, “Some feel that while many declarations are made on radio, television, and in newspapers, little is actually implemented.” The crisis originated in 2016 when protests by lawyers and teachers over marginalization escalated into a violent conflict, with armed groups advocating for the independence of a new state named Ambazonia.
The conflict has resulted in over 6,000 casualties and displacements exceeding one million individuals. Over time, Anglophone regions expressed grievances regarding systemic injustices stemming from their colonial history and perceived suppression of their identity. President Paul Biya acknowledged such tensions at the Second Paris Peace Summit in 2019, admitting that efforts to assimilate these regions failed.
The Major National Dialogue proposed various resolutions, such as granting special status to Anglophone regions and accelerating the decentralization process. Although progress has been observed in implementing these measures, Archbishop Nkea urged the government to engage directly with core separatists. He expressed concern, stating, “The boys [separatist fighters] feel you are merely talking among yourselves or to your friends.”
While the Church aims to facilitate dialogue rather than make state commitments, Nkea affirmed the importance of establishing trust between the government and separatists. He criticized the use of force to resolve conflicts, underscoring that all major wars concluded through negotiations.
In response, Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute acknowledged religious leaders’ efforts and reported advancements in the decentralization and disarmament processes. He revealed that about 3,500 ex-fighters have begun demobilization and reintegration into society. While noting some progress, experts warned against ignoring the root causes of the conflict, which could lead to “negative peace,” indicating unresolved issues that may provoke future violence.
In conclusion, Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya’s call for direct engagement between the Cameroonian government and separatists highlights the ongoing need for dialogue in the pursuit of peace. The escalation of the crisis since 2016 underscores the importance of addressing foundational grievances that have fueled conflict. While progress has been made through governmental measures, the recognition of separatist concerns remains crucial to achieving lasting resolution and preventing future confrontations.
Original Source: cruxnow.com
