Fearing rigged elections, PCC group compares Church to CPDM

By Lateu

A group of Christians within the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC), known as “Truth House”, has expressed concerns over potential election rigging during the Church’s upcoming leadership elections. The group held a press conference in Douala on November 14, 2024, ahead of the vote set for November 16.
The election will determine the next Moderator and Synod Clerk of PCC, with about 150 eligible voters, including delegates and senior members. Truth House claims that outgoing Moderator Rev. Fonki Samuel attempts to install his supporters in key positions, alleging corruption and moral decline within the Church. They also accused Rev. Fonki of creating an environment where pastors fear retribution for voicing their concerns.
“The Church has become a sad reflection of the CPDM party,” the group stated, advocating for transparency and integrity in the election process. Ntumfor Barrister Nico Halle, a group member, emphasized the need for free and fair elections, free from manipulation.
The group also criticized church leaders for exploiting the poor through tithes and offerings. “Pastors live in luxury, buying expensive cars with money earned from the poor,” said Ikomi Ngongi, another member.

While Truth House is not seeking leadership positions, they vowed to challenge the election results if evidence of malpractice emerges. They also called for Rev. Fonki to resign and for misappropriated funds to be returned.
At press time, Rev. Fonki was not immediately reachable for comment but in a recent outing marking the 67th Presbyterian Church Day, he admitted that his ten-year leadership of the PCC had “administrative errors” and he pleaded for forgiveness from his followers.
The PCC, which has about two million members, has faced ongoing leadership issues, and recent attempts at reconciliation have failed to quell internal tensions.