Fecafoot-Minsep saga: Senate, National Assembly call for dialogue

Yaoundé, Cameroon (CNA) — The Presidents of the Senate and the National Assembly have condemned the ongoing football crisis and political opposition activities during the opening session of the June parliamentary session.

Senate President Marcel Niat Njifenji denounced separatist atrocities in crisis-hit regions of Cameroon, highlighting frequent kidnappings for ransom and brutal killings. He specifically mentioned the recent killing of Bello’s Mayor, Mr. Ngong Innocent, and a Pedagogic Inspector of Basic Education on May 20, 2024.

Njifenji also addressed the the conflict between the ministry of Sports and physical education and the Cameroon football federation, urging both parties to engage in dialogue as football remains a national pride.

In the lower house, National Assembly Speaker Cavaye Yegue Djibril emphasized political issues, calling out opposition leaders aiming to destabilize the country ahead of the 2025 presidential elections. He echoed the call for dialogue in resolving the football crisis for lasting peace.

Both presidents commended Philemon Yang for his election as President of the 79th General Assembly of the United Nations.

The opening sessions were attended by government members, led by Prime Minister Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, and diplomatic representatives.

During the 30-day session, both houses will focus on budget-oriented debates.