By Synthia Lateu
The Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson, René Emmanuel Sadi, has stated that the Roman Catholic Bishops’ call for President Paul Biya to step down will not influence Cameroonians’ decision in the upcoming polls. He was reacting in a release on January 7, 2025 to the recent remarks made by the men of God.
The government official described the Bishops’ declarations as mere speculation and emphasized that it is their ” sole responsibility “and can in no way call into question the relationship between the State and religious denominations, nor influence the free choice of Cameroonians, who will, when the time comes, make up their minds in all sovereignty and responsibility,” Minister Sadi stated.
He furthered that Cameroon is a secular state where religions coexist. ” there is no conflict between the Government and religious denominations, in this case the Catholic Church.” the government spokesperson said, reassuring that Cameroon is a democratic state that respects freedom of speech.
He noted that President Paul Biya will communicate his decision regarding his candidacy ahead of the next elections, as his seven-year mandate runs out in a few months. “As of now, any controversy on this issue is unnecessary.” He urged those aspiring for the presidential office to participate in the next elections, noting that the government is preparing for them to unfold in a serene, transparent, and peaceful atmosphere.
Catholic bishops, including Bishop Barthélemy Yaouda Hourgo of Yagoua, Archbishop Samuel Kleda of Douala, and Bishop Emmanuel Abbo of Ngaoundéré, had called for the 92-year-old President Paul Biya not to seek another term as the nation gears up for a presidential election in October. They cited the President’s failing health and advanced age, along with years of unfulfilled promises, as reasons for him to step aside.
