A Patriotic Ambazonian (names withheld for security reasons) writes to The Independentist, raising fears of a disconnect of the Home front from the diaspora.

Letter to the Editor

Sir,

Warm greetings.

The disconnect between our diaspora leadership and the home front has grown dangerously wide, with serious implications for our collective revolutionary effort. Recent events surrounding the unexpected ghost town declaration by actors widely known to oppose our national aspirations have exposed this widening gap.

What began as a fringe initiative in one county has now extended its influence to major towns, including our historic capital. This development does not bode well for the national movement. The so-called “unity factions,” as they present themselves, operate with coordination, resources, and external backing that raise significant concerns.

Those of us working closely with ground forces have observed the problem firsthand. When the dissident lockdown call surfaced, we raised the alarm and advised that our leadership respond strategically in order not to appear out of touch with the people’s fears and expectations. Unfortunately, our response favoured virtue over pragmatism.

Major towns such as Bamenda and Buea are now respecting a ghost town call that did not originate from legitimate authority, largely because armed actors are enforcing compliance and intimidating the population. In several rural areas, communities are complying not out of loyalty to these dissident factions but due to the absence of any alternative security guarantee.

Meanwhile, some commanders operate only within limited geographic zones while issuing instructions meant for entire counties. This creates inconsistency and confusion on the ground while emboldening dissident structures to fill the void.

The spread of this syndrome across our territory demands immediate corrective measures. In the spirit of constructive engagement, I respectfully propose the following:

First, the legitimate leadership should consider issuing a clearly justified, centrally coordinated general lockdown to prevent political activities by external actors on our territory. A unified declaration would reclaim authority and restore coherence.

Second, all recognized self-defence units should be formally instructed to execute the official program issued by national command, without delay and without parallel agendas.

Third, resources should be re-allocated more strategically. While national celebrations are important, it is equally essential to strengthen operational capacity and security guarantees on the ground.

I must also commend our valiant forces in coastal territories for their continued defence of our homeland against incursions. Their resilience is deeply appreciated.

Let us continue to share ideas honestly, prioritise coordination, and provide timely guidance between the home front and the diaspora through the appropriate leadership channels.

Respectfully submitted,
Name withheld