4th December 2017: Gov’t declared war on secessionists. Where are we 7 years on?

By Hans Ngala

Today marks exactly 7 years since Cameroon’s authorities declared “war” on secessionists in the SW and NW Regions of the country. The declaration came following an ambush on four soldiers in Eyoumojock just outside of Mamfe, which left the four soldiers dead.

The ambush came as tensions were mounting from the months prior which had seen the declaration of the “independence of Ambazonia” in October that year.

Fringe separatist groups and scores of residents had taken to the streets in Buea, Bamenda, Kumba, Kumbo, and many other Anglophone towns in October 2017 to “declare the independence of Ambazonia” – the name which they sought to impose on the territory once known as the Southern Cameroons. The choice of the word “Ambazonia” could speak to a disdain for anything to do with ‘Cameroon’ at the time and an effort to cement this ‘independence’ as conceived in the mind of the separatists.

Seven years on and counting, the conflict has morphed into attacks on civilians by both sides with criminal gangs also taking advantage of the insecurity and looting or stealing.

Here are some suggestions on how the deadlock can be salvaged:

1. Inclusive Dialogue and Negotiation

A meaningful, inclusive dialogue is crucial to resolving the conflict. Both the Cameroon government and separatist groups should agree to open negotiations without preconditions. This should be facilitated by neutral third parties such as international mediators, the African Union (AU), or the United Nations (UN). Preferably, this dialogue should not take place on Cameroonian soil to avoid a situation where the government will use its power to intimidate participants. Leading Cameroonian journalists and clergy can help moderate the discussions as well.

• Government and Separatist Engagement: The government needs to engage with separatist leaders, including those who may be outside the formal political process. Recognizing the English-speaking population’s grievances and their historical and cultural differences is important. The constant decision to resort to name-calling and vilifying Anglophones as though they are less patriotic should desist if Anglophones are to be engaged in the peace process meaningfully.
• Ceasefire Agreement: Both sides could agree to a ceasefire as a first step toward de-escalation, with strict monitoring mechanisms in place. International and trusted bodies as well as local Cameroonian churches which are trusted by the public, can facilitate this process. Using local media especially radio and social media to reach separatist militants in the bushes will be crucial for this.

2. Autonomy or Federalism

One of the main sources of the conflict is the perceived marginalization of the Anglophone regions within a Francophone-dominated system. Providing more autonomy or reinstating a federal structure could address this.

• Federal System: Reviving the federal system that existed before 1972 could grant the Anglophone regions more control over their affairs, such as education, justice, and culture – which are at the core of the current conflict.  This could allow both sides to maintain their identities while still being part of Cameroon. To deny this fundamental difference that exists between both parts of Cameroon is to deny the cause of the problem in the first place and the conflict cannot be addressed without this.
• Devolution of Powers: The government could consider devolving more powers to regional governments, ensuring local autonomy over key areas of governance. This would give the Anglophone regions more say in their affairs and reduce their sense of alienation.

A federal system could also help address some concerns of the Francophone majority by maintaining national unity while respecting regional differences.

3. Human Rights Protection and Reconciliation

Addressing human rights violations and promoting a culture of reconciliation will be essential in healing the wounds caused by the conflict.

• Investigation of Abuses: Both sides have committed human rights violations during the conflict, and there must be independent investigations into these acts. Perpetrators should be held accountable, but the process should prioritize restorative justice rather than retribution.
• Truth and Reconciliation: A Truth and Reconciliation Commission (similar to South Africa’s) could be established to address grievances, foster forgiveness, and rebuild trust. This would also help both sides understand the depth of the pain and suffering caused by the conflict. The Desmond Tutu Foundation in South Africa and other leading figures in the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission could work with Cameroon in establishing and running this Commission and its hearings can be broadcast on TV and radio to help all Cameroonians understand the pain and loss felt by families of Anglophone victims as well as those of soldiers killed in the conflict.

4. Economic and Social Development

The Anglophone regions have long been economically marginalized, which has fueled resentment. For both sides to feel satisfied, the government must address the development disparities between the Anglophone regions and the rest of the country.

• Infrastructure and Services: The government should invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and employment in the Anglophone regions. This could demonstrate the government’s commitment to equity and build goodwill. Efforts are being made already by the government in this regard with the construction of the Bamenda-Babadjou stretch as well as the Ring Road but more needs to be done to gain the trust of Anglophones and foster unity and peace.
• Post-Conflict Reconstruction: After the cessation of violence, funds should be allocated to rebuild the war-torn areas, rehabilitate refugees, and help displaced people return to their homes.

5. International Support and Oversight

The role of international actors can provide vital support for the peace process. International bodies like the African Union, the United Nations, and the European Union could:

• Monitor Ceasefires and Agreements: International peacekeepers or monitors could help ensure compliance with ceasefires and agreements.
• Provide Aid and Resources: International financial and humanitarian support could assist in the reconstruction efforts and promote sustainable development in the Anglophone regions.

However, the involvement of international actors should be seen as a facilitative and supportive role rather than as an imposition on Cameroon’s sovereignty.

6. Democratic Reforms and Electoral Representation

Addressing the underlying political issues is critical for long-term peace. Cameroon’s political system needs to be reformed to ensure greater inclusion and fairness, allowing all groups to feel represented.

• Inclusive Political Representation: Ensuring that English-speaking regions are adequately represented in the national parliament and government could reduce their sense of political marginalization. This could be achieved by adjusting electoral laws or increasing the number of seats for Anglophones in the legislature.
• Free and Fair Elections: It is also essential to hold free and fair elections, with international observers involved, to ensure that the will of the people is respected. This will improve the legitimacy of the government and allow Anglophone communities to participate in national governance.

7. Public Awareness and Education

Building national unity requires changing public attitudes. Both Francophone and Anglophone populations need to understand each other’s grievances and historical contexts.

• Education on National Unity: Educational reforms that promote an understanding of Cameroon’s diversity, history, and cultural complexities could foster a sense of shared national identity.
• Cultural Exchange: Encouraging inter-cultural exchange between the Anglophone and Francophone regions could promote tolerance and understanding, reducing the “us vs. them” mentality that fuels division.

Conclusion

The path to peace and satisfaction for both sides in the Anglophone crisis involves a combination of dialogue, political reforms, autonomy, and international cooperation. Both the government and separatists need to be willing to compromise, acknowledge the historical and social issues at play, and take concrete actions to address grievances. By focusing on inclusivity, justice, and development, Cameroon has the potential to end this conflict in a way that benefits all its citizens, regardless of their linguistic or cultural background.

Eight years since peaceful protests began in 2016 and seven years since the conflict turned deadly in 2017, both sides need to be willing to exercise restraint. The government should realize that it has a tougher (yet possible) task of now mitigating the “armed insurrection” that the International Crisis Group had warned of in 2017.