PCC: Reflecting on Ten Years of Rt. Rev. Fonki’s Leadership
By Nchendzengang Tatah
The ten-year tenure of Rt. Rev. Dr. Fonki Samuel Forba as Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC) has been marked by significant challenges, controversy, and notable achievements. From his election in 2014 to his farewell in 2024, his leadership has left an indelible mark on the church, navigating both socio-political unrest and ecclesiastical challenges while overseeing a period of growth and transformation.
A Historic Election and Early Challenges
In 2014, Fonki Samuel was elected Moderator of the PCC in a move that was both historic and unexpected. Serving at the time as a pastor at PC Bastos and the Presbytery Secretary for East Mungo North, Fonki’s election was seen as unconventional—he bypassed the usual progression through the ranks of Synod Clerk. While some viewed his election as a blessing, it also marked the beginning of a challenging journey for the young leader.
His first mandate was quickly overshadowed by the outbreak of the Anglophone Crisis in 2016, which dramatically affected the North West and South West regions of Cameroon. The conflict led to widespread disruption, including the closure of schools, many of which were run by the PCC. This was a particularly painful blow as the church’s educational institutions were central to its mission. Adding to the crisis, a group of individuals claiming to represent a consortium of parents filed a lawsuit against church leaders, including Moderator Fonki, demanding accountability over the closure of schools.
The situation escalated, and on June 5, 2017, during one of the court hearings, Moderator Fonki was visibly moved, breaking down in tears as he addressed the crowd. The Advocate Newspaper’s headline that week captured the emotional moment, declaring: “Arraigned PCC Moderator weeps for Cameroon.”
Violence and Controversy
The PCC’s troubles continued in the following years. In 2021, during his second mandate, tragedy struck again when Rev. Montoh Simon, a PCC pastor, was shot by government soldiers while conducting liturgical services in Ntanfoang. The incident sparked outrage and controversy, with Moderator Fonki’s public statement fueling further tensions. The separatist movement in the region responded by banning the PCC in Bali, its birthplace.
These events, along with a constitutional crisis that nearly derailed the church’s leadership election in 2019, contributed to the polarized atmosphere in which Fonki led. Throughout his tenure, he also faced significant social media backlash and public criticism, but he continued to serve with resilience, navigating both internal and external pressures.
Achievements in Evangelism and Infrastructure
Despite the turmoil, Fonki’s leadership saw several important milestones for the church. Under his guidance, the PCC made notable strides in evangelism and church growth. A key achievement was the establishment of stronger ties with the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Uganda, with Fonki leading a team of pastors to mentor and upskill the Ugandan church’s leadership.
On the home front, the PCC saw significant numerical and financial growth during his tenure. This growth was reflected in tangible infrastructural improvements. In his final address on November 10, 2024, during the church’s Mission Feast Day, Fonki highlighted what he called an “infrastructural revolution” during his double mandate. This included the construction of five new medical institutions, several new schools, a Synod Office building, and the creation of PresMiFi, the church’s microfinance institution.
A Legacy of Forgiveness and Gratitude
In his concluding remarks, Moderator Fonki expressed his gratitude and humility, offering apologies for any “administrative errors” that may have occurred during his busy tenure. He also made a point to forgive those who had opposed him, stating, “I honestly go with no grudges, resentment, or vengeance. Those who hurt me, those who swore by fasting to bring down my leadership, are still my friends in Christ Jesus.”
As his tenure draws to a close, Fonki, a man from Bombe, Akwaya, prepares to return to pastoral ministry. Unlike previous moderators who typically retire after serving as head of the church, Fonki will resume his pastoral duties for a period of about six years before finally retiring.
After a decade of service filled with both hardship and growth, Rt. Rev. Dr. Fonki Samuel Forba leaves a complex legacy, one shaped by resilience, leadership under pressure, and a commitment to the church’s mission.
