“Mobilizing over 5,000 people, in Paris France, is a feat of strength because no one pays for anyone’s transportation.” Calixthe Beyala a political activits observered
This turn out was a Mark of political consciousness and a warning signal to the forty two years old government in the central Africa country, as the diaspora came out to listen to and support, what could be the begining of change for the country, gagged by a ruthless dictatorship for over 42 years.
This did not go down well with ministers of the Cameroonian regime who commented and mocked, the come together organized at Place de la République in Paris, they declared that “one cannot govern from Paris,”
These reactions are not strange in this central African country ravaged by a bloody civil war at its English speaking part and internal ethnic squabbles, as a result of the high-handedness of the regime that has sit tight for over 42 years.
The Paris gathering, as it is well known, could never have taken place on Cameroonian soil, given how systematically the regime blocks any space for the opposition to express itself.
No rally is allowed without hindrance. The Government machinary and the millitry are systematically deployed to prevent any mobilization, even peaceful.
The reasons given are often absurd: “disturbing public order,” “undeclared activity,” or simply, no explanation. First, repression is imposed, then justification is given.
Even more seriously, political leaders and activists cannot even gather for coffee or share a meal in a restaurant without being monitored, intimidated, or dispersed. The mere act of being together becomes an act of defiance.
On the other hand the ruling party the cameroon peoples democratic movement (CPDM) freely deploys state resources to organize its events: transportation, administrative support, media coverage, security reinforcements… Everything often at the expense of the Cameroonian taxpayer.
Double standards indeed.
This meeting in Paris was therefore much more than a rally. It was a cry of alarm sounded from exile by many Cameroonians, a reminder that the opposition can only express itself abroad .
It is the damning signal of a confiscated democracy, where only supporters of the government can speak, march, gather, or propose.
In true democracies , the opposition must be able to exist, express itself, protest, and propose solutions. This is not a luxury; it is a requirement in governance. It is not a favor from the regime; it is a constitutional right.
Finally, how can we talk about peace or credible elections while political prisoners languish in Cameroonian jails? journalist and political actors are serving prison terms just because they dared to speak up, demanding their rights guaranteed by law?
The trumpet sound from the Paris rally is requesting that, for free fare transperent and peaceful elections come October 2025:
- All political prisoners must be released.
- Equitable access to public and media space must be guaranteed for all political parties.
- The privatization of public institutions by a single party must end.
The Cameroon people deserves better than this facade of a democracy. It is time for the Republic to become once again the home of all, and not the tool of one camp.
