U-Turn In Rev Kenji’s Murder Case - Police Investigators Clear Adongatu

A fresh hearing of the case over the murder Rev Kenji Zephaniah, implicating Rev Esau Adongatu, former Momo Divisional Chief for Elections Cameroon, ELECAM came up at the Military Tribunal in Bamenda last Thursday September 13, 2012. Detained for almost a year at the Bamenda prison, Adongatu has been stable over the proceedings, which suffered a major setback. The team of Judges handling the murder case, were transferred. Another set of military judges thus decided to begin the matter from square one.

In its first hearing last week, all except one of the judicial police officials who carried out their investigations gave startling evidences about the murder. One of them, Yenkong Useni, testified that while investigating the circumstances that led to Rev Kenji’s murder, the culprits revealed that Rev Kenji was killed in the cause of a fight. Accordingly, that they came to steal, but when Rev Kenji gripped one of them, he was shot and fell weak, then they escaped.

According to the police, the hoodlums were in Nkwen and passed through Pa Ngwa’s shop, who unveiled the plot to eliminate Rev Kenji. Yet, had no money to finance the gang, though revealed how the Rev kept huge sums in his house.

Questioned whether they met Pa Ngwa, the police responded that it was the first time. But in the cross-examination by lawyers, the police was asked whether the gang returned to Pa Ngwa to be compensated, but said they didn’t.

To a school of thought, the truth about the story came out during the preliminary investigation. Rev Adongatu and the other accused were in court and listened with great attention. The matter was thereon adjourned for October, for the prosecution’s version to be completed before the case of the defence comes up.

8.2 Dangles On Chantal Kambiwa For Disgracing Fru Ndi In S. Africa

By IO Fossung

Chantal Kambiwa, an SDF frontline militant in the littoral region has given-up her quest to vie for the First Vice National Chairmanship position. Kambiwa, Chronicle gathered, gave up her ambitions following allegations that she is a target of the dreaded Article 8.2. Reason? Chronicle gathered that having challenged Fru Ndi’s candidate at the 24^th Socialist International congress at Cape Town South Africa, her fate was thus sealed.

Kambiwa, had been at the fore of aspirants expecting to contest the first vice national presidency of SDF at the party’s convention next month in Bamenda. Yet, a source hinted Chronicle that her victory at the Socialist International elections had compromised her many other openings within SDF.

A source at Ntarinkon hinted Chronicle that the chairman has been crossed with the disgrace he was baptized with in South Africa recently. Chronicle further learnt that Fru Ndi is bent to crush Kambiwa, to see how she would function with the socialist international portfolio, without linking it with SDF.

A file, Chronicle gathered, is being prepared against Kambiwa, which the convention would allegedly handle. Accordingly, Fru Ndi’s supporters see the defeat of Joshua Osih, Fru Ndi’s candidate at the socialist international parley, as a ridicule to the chairman; thus an act of anti-party activity.

Cameroonians could not have been versed with this development, but not of incisive reports by Le Messager, La Nouvelle Expression and Chronicle, about what transpired in South Africa. Fru Ndi had preferred Osih Joshua as the lone SDF candidate, yet Kambiwa foxed out her way with secretariat officials and her name featured. But being more prominent within Socialist International circles, she carried the day, to the chagrin of Fru Ndi, whose candidate Osih was battered.

Meanwhile, the scenario at the upcoming SDF convention already signals a lot of manipulations. Presently, there is a hot debate as to who becomes the 1^st vice national chairman. Bamilekes have vowed that since it was Pierre Kwemo (another Bamileke who resigned) who occupied that position, it is logical that another Bamileke succeeds him.

Littoral Delegates are projecting Jean Michel Nitcheu, the Littoral regional chairman for the 1^st vice national chairman; while the West region endorsed the candidacy of Hon Foupoussi Fotso Evariste (one time communication officer of SDF). Hon Noumba Serge was disqualified in the race.

The South West region is projecting or has invested Joshua Osih for the 1^st vice presidency. It is believed that Fru Ndi would urge the massive North West delegates to back Osih. To some commentators, this could create a major split within SDF and massive resignations, should Fru Ndi want to dictate the pace, as he did in South Africa recently and was disgraced (Affair a suivre…)

Commotion Over Appointments Mistaken for Cabinet Reshuffle - Dr. Peter Abety; Ministry of Education

By Musa Isa

Since the return of President Paul Biya and wife, Cameroonians have been expecting sweeping appointments, especially a cabinet shake-up. The 1pm, 5pm and 8pm French news on CRTV (radio) have respectively been listened to. Last Thursday September 13, 2012 the 1pm newscast over CRTV created panic. Names of some top government functionaries like Dr. Peter Abety, Chi Asafor were read and linked with particular ministries. Most listeners, who were not glued to their radio sets at the start of the newscast, misinterpreted it for a cabinet shake-up. But it was less so.

Shortly after the news ended, Chronicle’s news desk was inundated with phone calls from listeners in Yaounde, Bamenda, Kumba, Buea, about the development. But then, rather a cabinet reshuffle, it was instead a decree appointing Chairmen of Tenders Board in the various ministries. Dr. Peter Abety was appointed to head the board in the Ministry of Education, while Chi Asafor Cornelius another North West son was appointed in another ministry. The names read, corresponded to all the ministries.

Chronicle gathered that some of the appointed officials, who merely received phone calls about their appointments almost plunged into celebrations. Yet, a source at the presidency hinted Chronicle that such appointments have its effects.

Dr. Peter Abety is presently the board chairman of the Cameroon GCE Board. Having been appointed as tender’s board president in the ministry, it is believed that his days at the GCE Board are numbered. Abety is even a former member of government. At one time, he served as minister of mission at the presidency, until he was dropped. He had allegedly been foxing out all strategies for a come-back or appointed Vice Chancellor. Yet, Biya has other options.

The anxiety, which last week’s radio appointment of Board Chairmen in ministries, mistaken as members of government is a tacit indication that there could be one in the offing.

Already, President Biya has reorganized the ministries of Defence and Old Servicemen. Even the Ministry of Communication and others have had similar reorganizations. It is highly probable that with this, and speculations about the aftermath of Marafa’s verdict, a shake-up would be inevitable (Read separate story elsewhere in this edition)

Biya Appoints Secretary Generals In Ministries - 3 Anglophones Flushed-Out; One New Entry

By Musa Isa

The decree had long been awaited, following the last December 2011 cabinet shake-up, wherein some Secretary Generals were upgraded to become members of government. Ngole Philip Ngwese, for instance left as SG in the Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms, to become Minister of Forestry and Wildlife; Prof. Fru Angwafor III, SG of Public Health had since been appointed Director of the Gaeneco-Obstetric Hospital Yaounde. Yet, out of the seven Anglophones who served as SGs, the number was curtailed to six, by dint of last week’s presidential decree. Paul Tasong, who has not been long as SG in the Ministry of Economy Planning and Territorial Development was relieved, while Felix Mbayu was the new Anglophone entry as SG of the External Relations ministry.

Anglophone Survivors/Maintained

Justice - George Gwamesia

Environment & Nature Protection - Akwa Patrick Kum Mbong

Anglophones Flushed Out

Public Health - Prof Fru Angwafor III

Economy Planning… - Paul Tasong

Public Service - Ngole Philip Ngwese

Anglophones Change of Portfolio

Nassako Fritz Gerald (Water & Energy to Land Tenure)

Prof Leke Ivo Tambo (Secondary to Basic Education)

Anglophone New Entry

Felix Mbayu - External Relations

Complete List of the Newly Appointed SGs

- Social Affairs - Mme Aboutou Rosalie

- Arts & Culture - Moutar Ousmane

- State Property & Land Tenure - Nassako Fritz Gérald

- Water & Energy - Manawouda Malacki

- Plan, Economic Planning - Edoa Gilbert Didier

- Basic Education - Prof Leke Tambo Ivo

- Secondary Education - Pogoué Paul Gérald 

- Higher Education - Ngoumou Horace Manga

- Finance - Ebang Mve Urbain Nöel

- Public Service & Administration Reforms - Gambou Fadjo Pierre

- Urban Affairs & Housing - Hamadou Sardawona

- Sports & Physical Education - Yérima Joseph

- Public Contracts - Tchofo Jean

- Mines, Industries & Technological Development - Eba Abada Edouard

- Post & Telecommunication - Djodom Armand

- Women’s Empowerment & Family - Moussa Awoudou

- External Relations - Mbayou Felix

- Public Health - Mme Koula née Chiro Siwata

CATTU: Atanga Not Simamu Or Epie Succeeds Simon Nkwenti

By Tetuh Mbah

Just a week after the internment of Simon Nkwenti the Executive Secretary General of the Cameroon Teachers’ Trade Union, CATTU, a successor has been identified. An extraordinary/emergency council session of CATTU, held at its head office in Bamenda last Saturday September 15, 2012 elected Christopher Bunai Atanga as interim National Executive Secretary of CATTU.

Last Saturday’s meeting, convened and presided at by Mombakued Victor, the eldest Technical Adviser of CATTU, Chronicle was told, was in line with Article 8 of CATTU’s constitution. Accordingly, the interim Executive Secretary would manage CATTU for 14 months maximum, of which he would conduct elections and would not be a candidate.

Though speculations had been that Clement Simamu, CATTU’s National Organizing Secretary or Emmanuel Epie, the Vice Executive Secretary could fill the gap par interim, Chronicle gathered that because both CATTU bigwigs nurse ambitions to pick up the helm fully, gives reason why none could accept to have been nominated to be interim Executive Secretary.

If CATTU constitution is anything to go by, then elections would effectively hold in November 2013, Chronicle was told.

Meanwhile last weekend’s CATTU council, called on all institutions and persons who collaborated with and intend to collaborate with CATTU to give Atanga the support that has always been characteristic of them.

At the end of the one day extraordinary national executive council meeting, CATTU expressed its profound grief over the death of its erstwhile emblematic leader, Simon Nkwenti and regretted its deepest and sincere condolence to the bereaved Nkwenti and CATTU families.

Urging all union members to stay focused, the council called on the interim national executive secretary general to uphold the ideals of the union especially in matters of improving on the working and living conditions of teachers and to maintain the partnerships with all stakeholders.

Oku Mayor In Rape & Adultery Scandal

By Shey Wirba

Investigations have almost wrapped-up, over a complaint of adultery and sexual assaults, filed against Ngum Jerome Njioh, Mayor of Elak-Oku, the Prime Minister’s constituency. Last weekend, Chronicle gathered that investigative officials at Oku had forwarded a file to State Counsel in Kumbo, Bui divisional headquarters, for the Oku Mayor to be brought to book, for allegedly committing adultery and having sex with an underage girl.

The complaint, addressed to the Chief of Social Welfare Centre at Elak-Oku, a copy of which Chronicle has, implicates Mayor Ngum Jerome in the acts. Also attached, is the medical/laboratory test of Rahinatu, aged 13 years, whose pregnancy test, had been diagnosed as positive. The matter had since been kept covert, given the scandal it might produce to bring PM Yang to shame.

“Complaint against Mr. Ngum Jerome Njioh, Mayor of Elak Council for Adultery.

I, Gaji Yusufa Uba, holder of the national identity card issued on 17/2/2011, do complain against Mr. Ngum Jerome Njioh, the mayor of Elak council for committing adultery with my wife on Sunday, 10^th April, 2011 at the Elak council office. I caught him having sex with my wife on one of the chairs in the mayor’s office.

This is a criminal and immoral act and I want you to use the laws of this country to penalize him since Cameroon is a state of law.

Let me also inform you that this same man has pregnated one of our small girls called Rahinatu and aged thirteen years when he misled her with five thousand (5000) francs. This time, he gave my wife ten thousand (10.000) francs to commit adultery with her.

My wife’s name is Adama Ahamadu”.

Meanwhile, Mayor Ngum Jerome’s 5 year mandate at the helm of Elak-Oku council has been one of scandals. At some time last year, he abandoned the corpse of one of his wives who died abroad and brought to Oku for burial. The scandal was yet to be over when last July 31, 2012, the Bui SDO summoned him into his office, over his questionable management of the council.

Accused of having siphoned some 49 million FCFA HIPIC funds for the construction of the Tolon-Balu road and the Miih bridge, Ngum Jerome had since not been perturbed. Worse still Mayor Ngum is said to have procured a council vehicle at 3.2 million FCFA, in a trip sponsored by the Elak council to Dubai, yet turned around to sell the same vehicle to the same council at 22.896.000 FCFA.

Within Oku, Mayor Ngum openly boasts how nothing can happen to him given that the Prime Minister will never support any CONAC control of the Elak council to avoid shame. And with elections in the offing, Mayor Ngum guilty of being flushed out is quoted to have threatened to campaign for the opposition SDF; if signs are shown that he will not be reelected mayor.

Oku residents have been wondering why other mayors have been arrested for misappropriation, yet theirs moves on freely. Mayor Ngum even parades self as the power-broker of Oku. It is no more news that he has vowed to replace Soh Patrick with Mkong Nicolas Yong as CPDM section president; while his brother-in-law Ngokse Francis is the one he is grooming to replace Hon Kwei Andrew as member of parliament and Jong Francis as YCPDM section president.

Balikumbat Succession: Ngoketunjia SDO Under Pressure to Overturn Kingmakers Choice Of Fon Nyamsi III

- Want Fon Doh’s Step-Brother Imposed

By Tegha Otega

Kuela Valerie, Senior Divisional Officer, SDO for Ngoketunjia division has convened the population of Balikumbat village together at the Uphill/plateau palace of their Fon. In a move critics have not taken in fine-fettle, the SDO is already accused of trying to severe the succession lineage of Balikumbat village. The parley would be staged a few days after the traditional council/kwifon, presented their new fon to their subjects, last Sunday, September 16, 2012. HRH Doh Nyamsi Theophile III was presented as Fon Doh’s Gah Gwanyin III’s successor. Yet, the move, Chronicle gathered does not tie well with some of the elite, who allegedly prefer but the step-brother to the ‘missing’ Fon Doh.

On Friday September 21, 2012 therefore, excitement would be total, as to whether the Ngoketunjia SDO would want to impose the choice allegedly sponsored by a group of elite. Will the SDO maintain the succession lineage in Balikumbat or break from the old tradition? This has been the worry.

Some Balikumbat subjects, however hinted Chronicle last weekend that their SDO would have nothing to do to change the statuesque, following the enthronement of one of Fon Doh’s son; Doh Gah Gwanyin Theophile as Fon Doh Nyamsi III, succeeding his father. Chronicle was told that the new fon had within the last few days, undergone initiation by the kwifons. His public presentation last Sunday was thus seen as confirmation to the fact that he is the rightful successor of Fon Doh.

It is common knowledge within Balikumbat village that Fon Doh’s will had no doubts. Chronicle learnt that he had willed the throne to his son, the graduate from ENAM. Thus, with the kingmakers/kwifons having pulsated/respected the will, it thus becomes a non-event to create another scenario.

Fon Nyamsi was presented to the population last Sunday; he would be ratified by the administration on Friday, September 21, 2012 then the cry-die of Fon Doh would be slated. Balikumbat palace sourced however hinted Chronicle that though Fon Doh’s cry-die would be in November this year, it has to be actualized progressively.

It is expected that the new Balikumbat fon must lead his subjects for the cry-die of the Fon of Baligham first. Chronicle was also told that the Balikumbat people were supposed to have stormed Baligham earlier for the funeral of its fon who was ‘missing’ recently but delayed following a controversy; that until this is done before Fon Doh’s cry-die can effectively take place in Balikumbat.

Following the ‘missing’ of Fon Doh, the Balikumbat Development Organization BADO, held an extra-ordinary congress in Balikumbat a fortnight ago. A committee was set-up, headed by Hon Banmi Emmanuel, to prepare for the cry-die. At least 3 million FCFA was raised ahead of the cry-die initially slated for next November.

Given the weight of Fon Doh, his cry-die would be expected to pull a massive crowd, including a representative of the CPDM secretary general and the head of state. With his billings as a CPDM central committee member, former CPDM mayor and lone CPDM Member of Parliament, President Biya would be expected to dispatch an envoy, envelop and message to the Balikumbat people.

Apart from allegations that the Ngoketunjia SDO may be under pressure from some elite, to temper with the succession lineage, Chronicle gathered that the late Fon Doh had been at variance with the SDO. Conversely, he may not just take to the will of the late fon, but would want to see things in the way of his supporters. (Affair a suivre…)

- Bayero Fadil, Biya’s Next Prime Minister?

Outcome Of Marafa’s Verdict:

Yang’s Job Now In Danger!

 

By Yussuf Sariki

Ahead of the verdict on Friday, September 21, 2012 over the failed acquisition of a presidential jet, the Albatross scandal, uncertainty reigns supreme. The suspense has been heightened given the defence filed by both Marafa Hamidou Yaya and Yves Michel Fotso’s lawyers, over the absence of evidence that faults their clients. Matters have been aggravated, following tracts already in circulation, opting for the release of Marafa. The fear of the consequences of the verdict is what political analysts suspect a presidential counter. Accordingly, to appease the Moslem Northerners, should Marafa be jailed, another Nordist, pulling the same weight like Marafa may be brought-in. Conversely, the position that could be sacrificed may probably be that of the Prime Minister. Bayero Fadil, son of multi-millionaire Oumarou Fadil is thus tipped to step into Yang’s shoes.

Yang’s position, Chronicle has been told is even hanging on the balance following a press report that he had tendered his resignation. An allegation, which the Prime Minister long dismissed in a press release published in Cameroon Tribune. Yet, to some observers, there could have been no smoke without a fire.

With President Paul Biya back in the country, a series of decrees have been signed with others expected. Last week, President Biya reorganized the two ministries of Defence and Old Servicemen. Analysts see this as a prelude to an imminent cabinet shake-up, moreso after ministers had submitted their roadmaps for appraisal to the Prime Minister.

The strategy to ‘sacrifice’ Yang with a Nordist, a school of thought holds, could play well to dampened flared tempers should Marafa be jailed. Drawing afflatus from the appointment of Simon Achidi Achu as Prime Minister in 1992 as a strategy to weaken John Fru Ndi, another school of thought is skeptical whether such a strategy of using Fadil to water-down Marafa would not backfire too.

This notwithstanding, an authoritative source linked with the presidency hinted Chronicle that Edvord Akame Mfoumou, one-time Minister of Finance may be one of the new entries in an impending cabinet shake-up. But as Chronicle is aware, Akame Mfoumou may not be in Biya’s good books, given the involvement of his son, Eugene Akame Mfoumou in varied rackets, even before the father quit government. And though the Beti/Essingan elite, Chronicle gathered are mounting pressure over Akame Mfoumou’s come-back, the move seems to be very unpopular.

It will however be Justice Gilbert Schlick, at the head of a panel of judges at the Mfoundi High Court in Yaounde, to decide the fate of Marafa and Yves Michel Fotso: whether to bank on the pontifications of the State Counsels, who intimated that Marafa and Fotso are guilty of embezzling 31 million US dollars (24 billion FCFA), money meant for the purchase of a presidential plane, the Albatross. Worse still, that Marafa who claimed not to have had any links with Fotso was proven wrong with documents, unveiling how some 1.150.000 US dollars went into his (Marafa’s) account, allegedly channeled by Fotso.

Yet during the last court hearing, Marafa told the court that he informed the Head of State about every step he took in connection with the purchase of the presidential plane. And before the court rose, Marafa swore that he was not guilty; noting that the better he be jailed for obeying the Head of State than being linked with the embezzlement of 31 million US dollars.

Marafa’s lawyers, on their part, pleaded how the prosecution had built its case on lies and affirmations, rather than relevant evidence writes, Cameroon Tribune. These varied positions are what have been generating curiosity and security concerns

First Major Shake-Up At ELECAM - Fonkam Fires North West & West Regional Delegates

By Musa Isa

The decision came as no surprise, given the full powers accorded Dr. Samuel Fonkam Azu’u, in the revised text of Elections Cameroon, ELECAM. The Board Chairman (President) of ELECAM thus relieved Emmanuel Ning Formu-Kum and his counterpart from the West Region with other Regional Delegates maintained. They were immediately replaced last Thursday, September 13, 2012 by Gasper Thairinyuy Nga for the North West and Ngounou Gabriel for the West Regions respectively. Both served as divisional heads of Bui and the Upper Nkam divisions respectively.

While performing the installation rite at the North West ELECAM office at Ntarinkon-Bamenda last Thursday September 13, Erik Essousse, Deputy Director General of ELECAM, did not give any clue as to why Formu-Kum was replaced/called to other duties. He however hailed the outgone for his selfless endeavours in keeping the ELECAM flame. Some observers however suspected that Formu-Kum’s poor health condition could have precipitated his replacement. Chronicle gathered that the outgone NW ELECAM boss recently returned from Germany for medical attention and had since seen his health not in very fine fettle.

The Nitty-Gritties

According to the appointment decision 0007/ELECAM/CE/DU of September 10, 2012, issued by the Elections Cameroon Director, Fonkam Azu’u, Nga Gasper replaced the pioneer North West ELECAM Delegate, Formu-Kum Emmanuel ‘called to other duties’.

Erik Essousse, Deputy Director General of ELECAM, who presided over the installation ceremony, observed that Formu-Kum Emmanuel worked very hard in his tenure of office especially as he managed the 2011 presidential elections in the North West Region without any hitches. He stressed that Gasper Nga has taken over the position as North West Regional Delegate of ELECAM and Formu-Kum Emmanuel remains a worker of ELECAM.

“Ranks belong to individuals and functions belong to the state”, quipped Essousse adding that the incoming regional delegate of ELECAM was chosen because of his rich experience.

While Gasper Nga was enjoined to gather the North West ELECAM family together to create a serene atmosphere for success to come his way, he was equally called upon to ensure that he works hard to cause his subordinates embrace biometric registration wholeheartedly as the 2013 twin elections - municipal and parliamentary are at the corner. However, the deputy director of ELECAM noted that Gasper will be given practical guidelines of functioning and entreated the North West ELECAM workers to give their boss the necessary support for all of them to deliver the goods.

Quizzed by newsmen to explain why Formu-Kum Emmanuel was replaced when he was congratulated for having worked hard especially in managing the 2011 presidential elections, the deputy director general of ELECAM elected to remain mute.

Brief Biography

Nga Gasper Thairinyuy comes into the Regional Delegation of Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) NWR, with over 10 years of teaching and facilitating English language, English literature, Legislation, Sociology, Psychology, Psycho-analysis and Administration in various higher institutions of learning within Cameroon and in Turkey. He offers part-time lectureship in the Higher Technical Teacher Training College (ENSET) Bambili - University of Bamenda. He equally facilitates communication through leadership trainings, health education and sports-oriented initiatives in collaboration with the National Employment Fund, the Netherlands Corporation Overseas (SNV) and other organizations in Turkey. Before his present appointment, he served as the pioneer Divisional Delegate of Elections Cameroon in his native Bui division - NWR.

Born on the 12^th of November 1971 in Bambui, Mr. Nga Gasper holds a Master of Arts (MA) Degree in English and Humanities from the Eastern Mediterranean University in Cyprus and a B.A (Hons) in English from the University of Yaounde-Cameroon.

He is a song-writer and producer. ELECAM has benefited from two of such songs. He has held various leadership and volunteer positions in the schools he attended and the community he lives in. he also has three publications to his credit.

Mr. Nga is happily married and a proud father of one.

Bamenda III Council To Construct Rental Houses, Wage War Against Indecent Dressing

- Goat Ranch Goes Operational Soon

The midway evaluation session of the Bamenda III council held on September 11, 2012 with several executed and envisaged projects for 2012/2013 of the council heralded by the councillors and the Supervisory Authority (SDO).

Presenting a comprehensive financial report of the council activities between January 1, 2012 and August 2012, the Finance Committee observed that of the 320.101.664 FCFA budgeted for this year, the sum of FCFA 133.571.359 has been realized scoring a realization rate of 41.73%, meanwhile FCFA 106.547.640 has been spent recording 33.29%.

According to the Finance committee, the total revenue realization of 41.73% during the first six months of the year is encouraging.

Harping on the indecent dressing of boys and girls in the Bamenda III municipality, the councillors resolved that those indecently dressed, would never be attended to by the council authorities if they need the services of the council or severely punished by the forces of law and order of the municipality.

In a bid to raise enough revenue for the council, it was resolved that the council would construct rental houses in strategic areas of the municipality. In the same vein, Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwie presented a team from a German based NGO which came in to work on feasibility studies of setting up potable water in the Bamenda III council area.

One of the team members told the councillors that the NGO dubbed “Drinking Water- Cameroon” has as vice president, Akongha Lambert who hails from Bamenda III, reason why they started with Bamenda III. He said the project will start in January 2013 with the construction of a 10 meters high and 3 meters wide water tank in Bamenda III which would be able to purify 30.000 liters of water per hour.

In addition to the water project, Mayor Fongu Cletus announced that a goat ranch would be constructed in Bamenda III by 2013 and regretted that some corrupt staff of his council will be investigated and if found guilty of corrupt practices, they would be severely punished.

Unlike Bamenda II councillors who in their council session on Tuesday September 10, 2012, disclosed that Bamenda II sub division has a population of over 350.000 as per the 2005 population census and should ipso facto have 61 councillors not the present 29 councillors, their colleagues of Bamenda III said there’s no population statistics of the Bamenda III. They however regretted that if they do not get the statistics before the municipal elections next year, their councillors will remain the same.

On why National Polytechnic Bambui was carrying ‘Bambui’ instead of Nkwen or Bamenda, one of the councillors corrected that he accosted the Proprietor of NPB, Yong Francis on the matter and he was told that as from this September 2012, the school’s name will be “National Polytechnic Bamenda”  not Bambui. He said he saw how the concrete signpost which was carrying the inscription “National Polytechnic Bambui” being destroyed, apparently for the new one to be constructed and to read “National Polytechnic Bamenda”.

On the poor sanitation of the Bamenda III municipality, councillors noted that heaps of dirts are visible everywhere in town because the Bamenda city council has continued to drag its feet on disposing of the dirts. They commissioned the grand councillors to raise the matter during the Bamenda city council session and plead with the Government Delegate to hands off the cleaning of the town and the garbage disposal for Bamenda III to properly take care of the sanitation of the town.

Deputizing for the SDO, the First Assistant SDO for Mezam enjoined the revenue collectors of Bamenda III to intensify the collection to improve on the revenue collected “so that next year, it should be 100% not 41% like what obtains this year”. He opined that economic development can’t be successful if the town is not in peace and called on the council to work with the forces of law and order.

At General Assembly: SODELCO Indicts MBOSCUDA For Misrepresenting Fulani Community

- Says Fulanis are not indigenous nor marginalized race

- Mbororo is a specie of cattle not human race

The general assembly of Ardos Union held at the Bamenda congress hall on September 7, 2012 to celebrate its achievements and map out strategies to forge ahead. In his keynote address to a well over 30 Ardos and invitees at the assembly, the Secretary General of the Ardos’ Union cum President of SODELCO, Alhadji Youguda Buba, opined that the raison d’être of the general assembly was to celebrate their achievements as well as share their problems for the common good of the Fulani community. He said the Ardos’ union as well as SODELCO has come a long way to fight for the rights and progress of the Fulanis and most importantly for peace, unity and development to reign within the Fulani community and Cameroon as a whole.

Alhadji Youguda stressed that the Ardos also came together most importantly to brainstorm on the way forward for their organization and putting in place a plan of action and check against “a group of unscrupulous individuals or organization scheming to destabilize the unity and peace of our organization which is so much cherished by the Fulanis as the only organization that can assemble them together for the common good of all”. He observed that the Ardos’ union and SODELCO unlike other Fulani organizations misleading the Fulanis, Cameroon and the international community, stand tall as the only authentic and most reliable Fulani organization. He hoped that after the brainstorming, the members were going to leave the assembly smiling that finally, the moves by some unscrupulous Fulanis and groups have been frustrated with the promoters nipped in the bud.

Creating awareness to the international community and Cameroon government in particular about the Fulani community, the Vice National President, Abdel Aziz Hamidou, corrected that in 1987, a group of Fulanis created an organization in Bamenda dubbed “Fulani Social Association” and in 1991, another Fulani brothers came up with another group called “Mbororo Development Association” and today, “Mbororo Social, Cultural and Development Association - MBOSCUDA” for their selfish purpose.

Hear him: “There’s no race in the world called Mbororo. Mbororo is rather the species of cattle not human beings”. He said the MBOSCUDA promoters did this deliberately to create a false impression to the international community that they are marginalized, indigenous population like the Bakas of the East Region so as to attract funding from the international community for their individual interest not even for the Fulanis.

Abdel Aziz questioned why MBOSCUDA claims that Mbororos (Fulanis) are marginalized in Cameroon when the Technical Adviser at the Presidency is MBOSCUDA National President, a Fulani, Galga Haman, was a Minister, several Fulani people now in the army, others nurses and teachers in the civil service among others.

According to Abdel Aziz, MBOSCUDA is not helping Cameroon government one bid, given that it’s creating an impression in the international community that the indigenous people of Cameroon like Mbororos (Fulanis) and the Bakas are marginalized, whereas they all enjoy like every Cameroonian from the services Cameroon government offers. “The government has opened schools in all the nooks and crannies of this country including hospitals etc. Let MBOSCUDA tell Cameroonians whether their children have for once been chased out of any school or whether any Fulani has been denied access to any hospital because of his Fulani race. So it’s because they blindfold the international community that they attract funding from the donors for their individual selves”. He said because of their lies telling, most international organizations like Plan-Cameroon, ILO and lot more, have continuously been spending on MBOSCUDA members every other year.

Abdel Aziz disclosed that they (Fulanis) have started telling the international community the truth about the Fulani race of Cameroon, reason why MBOSCUDA appears to be dormant this time. “Recently, I frustrated FCFA 600 million which an international organization would have sent to MBOSCUDA for the construction of a veterinary school after telling them the truth that we have several veterinary schools in the country”. He said with SODELCO, over 700 cattle is kept to give to Fulani communities to assist them raise income while the youths are equally empowered economically and others sent to school with no foreign funding like MBOSCUDA; all thanks to SODELCO cum Ardos’ Patron, Alhadji Baba Danpullo, who has always been by the Fulanis to give them the necessary support.

Calling them scammers, Abdel Aziz regretted that MBOSCUDA claims that over 4000 Fulanis are evicted from their grazing land when it’s all fake and giving Cameroon a bad name. He said there are about 86 Ardos in Cameroon and 46 in the North West Region alone. Out of the 46 Ardos in the North West, 30 answered present at the September 7, 2012 Ardos union general assembly. “So you can see that MBOSCUDA does not work with their chiefs”.

In his closing remarks, the representative of the SDO for Mezam, Chemuta Samuel who raised eyebrows over the poor relationship existing between SODELCO and Ardos’ union on the other hand, and MBOSCUDA, noted that all the organizations have been legalized by the government, reason why all of them hold their meetings without any obstruction from the administration or the police. But he said it would be criminal where one of the organizations is misrepresenting all the Fulanis and enjoying certain rights or privileges that the entire Fulanis are entitled to.

Groundbreaking Induction of New CBC General Secretary Rev Ncham

Rev. Ncham

Adolph Lele Lafrique, the new North West governor cut short his leave to live the rite inducting  Rev Ncham Godwill as the new general secretary of the Cameroon Baptist Convention, CBC. This was at the main Baptist church at the CBC headquarters at Nkwen-Bamenda, last Sunday September 9, 2012. Governor Lele Lafrique sat beside Dr. Linda Yang, wife to the Prime Minister and Head of Government. The turnout of the induction in itself was laudable, given that for the first time, the three immediate past general secretaries: Revs Nyonglo, Tangwa and Ndichafah were conspicuously present. Representatives of the Catholic and Presbyterian faiths, including the ubiquitous Ntumfor Nico Halle were there. At least 3000 faithfuls and guests including Fon Yuh of Kom made their presence felt.

It was a highly animated event, coordinated by Tetevi Bodylawson, one-time President and Education Secretary of CBC. The entraulic/enchanting lyrics of NACOMEC, the French choir of CBC Etoug Ebe Yaounde, Wonya Christo choir Bethany Buea and Sekarettes, gave life and panache to the induction.

It was not a normal Sunday service, yet, the event was though an induction, also witnessed the rededication of the president and vice of CBC- Joe Chebonkeng Kalabutse and Justice Betty Luma.

Prior to the rite, Rev Dr. Paul Mokake presented a very succinct and hair-raising sermon. Drawing afflatus from the book of Acts 20: 28-31, Dr Mokake urged faithfuls and the inducted/rededicated to be watchful as they labour in God’s vineyard. Dr. Mokake Chronicle gathered is head of the Kumba seminary and newly elected (pioneer) president of the pastors’ fellowship.

According to Dr. Mokake, though he stood to challenge Rev Ncham at the last CBC convention elections in Ndu, he did not do so as a rival, but a friend and classmate. He posited that the sermon, he was preaching was just to remind his friend on some of the things that guide the CBC.

Dr. Mokake however hailed past CBC presidents and general secretaries for steering the sheep. He opined that each leader must make the church better than what he was entrusted to attain. Reiterating how his belief is that the greatest need of the CBC today is to have God’s-sent leadership. He posited that until God gets the attention of the leader, he can seldom get the attention of the church, adding that Apostle Paul yearned to transform leaders. He prayed that by God’s grace, Rev Ncham Godwill would match his goals.

Induction Rite Proper

It was Rev Fimba, Director of Missions and Evangelism at CBC who performed the induction ritual. He called up Rev Ncham and wife; introduced them to the congregation, before urging the wife to take her seat. Rev Ncham alone, facing the congregation, was presented the CBC constitution and then the holy bible. He was then urged that thse are the works which is 4-year mandate would be based on implementing. The congregation/session was asked to raise their approval, unlike was massively done.

Rev Ncham then knelt on a pillow placed infront of Christians and guests, with the bible in his hand. Then four key officials placed their hands on his head in simultaneous recitations and prayers. He was then raised up to a thunderous ovation of Christians/guests: a sign that he had gone through the ritual and inducted.

Prior to Rev Ncham’s induction, there was the formal rededication of Joe Chebonkeng and Justice Betty Luma as president and vie president of CBC. They were merely handed the bible and introduced to the congregation/guests, alongside their spouses. This was moreso, given that 4-years ago, they had undertaken the actual ritual.

Rev Ncham, President Chebonkeng and vice, Mme Luma were each presented gifts by faithfuls. Exceptionally the people of Kom, were in ecstatic fashion, given that Rev Ncham was one of theirs.

Choves Loh, senior journalist with Cameroon Tribune North West was at the fore of the events. As a son of Boyo, he was at the heart of mobilization to give the event the grander it deserved. During the presentation of gifts, Choves, clad in the green CBC outfit, danced exceedingly in front of the church as Kom elements moved on to present gifts. A message co-signed by Choves, Rev Fr Joseph Ateh (parish priest of Big Mankon) and Nkwain Lawrence Yong (president KOCUDA Bamenda) put things straight.

“The entire Kom community in Bamenda stood by you at this gracious moment as you take command to serve and bring glory to God as the new General Secretary of the Cameroon Baptist Convention, CBC”. The message titled “Courage Brother”, further urged the new general secretary that “The Lord, the Holy God of Israel is your God. You are precious to him because He loves you and gives you honour”. Concluding, the Kom community urged Rev Ncham “Do not be afraid, God is with you”.

Pedigree of New CBC General Secretary

Ncham Godwill Chiatoh was catapulted unto national screen some few months ago after the elective General Session of the Cameroon Baptist Convention, CBC that took place in Ndu, recently. Before this day, Ncham had been doing his work quietly as Youth Director. Ncham Godwill Chiatoh, before the General Assembly never seemed to be one of the favourites for the race of General Secretary of the CBC given his relatively youthful age. When the race for the replacement of Rev. Donald Ndichafah started, nobody ever thought the 42-year old and unassuming man of God could be any match. At the end of the vote counting, Ncham Godwill emerged as the dark horse to pick the coveted top job of the church.

This young man, endowed with leadership qualities and interpersonal communication skills has been in God’s vineyard for just over 15 years after graduating from the Cameroon Baptist Theological Seminary, CBTS Ndu with a Bachelor’s degree.

In his twenties, his thirst for God led him to contemplate leaderships in church as a pastor with the mandate of winning souls for Christ. As a young man, Ncham Godwill had to follow God’s will for him - that of becoming God’s worker. His close aides reveal that he decided to work in God’s vineyard at an earlier age after studying the lives and works of a number of God’s great men of previous generations. This enabled him to grasp the fact that every one of them had an intimate knowledge of Christ that was beyond his own experience. He discovered that all these men, however different their characters and their work, had two secrets in common: they all began the day in solitude with God in prayer; and they all read the whole Bible right through each year. Ncham Godwill has since imbibed these two cardinal principles and qualities and this accounts for his leadership skills in the church.

As a young upscale church leader and pastor, he undertook to read the Bible in depth every year, and to achieve this, he allotted enough time for prayers knowing just too well that it is not by might or power but by the will of God, being a Godwill in the first place. This has become his fundamental principle of life. The revelation of God’s face has become a whole mission and vision to this young, upscale pastor of the Cameroon Baptist Convention who believes Christ remains his rock, his refuge and his stronghold. As a young man who has given his whole time to Christ’s service, Ncham Godwill Chiatoh who was so active in church activities during his formative years in Government Secondary School, GSS Fundong started to live an exemplary life so other could emulate. This, he did in total dependence on God. Born of a very humble background, Ncham Godwill sometimes often depended on God even for his daily bread - a simple faith that God has now honoured for well over three decades. As he grew up in suffering, poverty, and ignominy, he saw God bring into being a work of such spiritual potency that he was eventually overwhelmed and exhausted by the number of young men and women who came looking for Christ through him. A number of those young men and women Pastor Godwill has brought up through his ministry as Youth Director has rose up to serve God mightily. Through his work, especially as Field Pastor and ordinary preacher, a number of souls have been evangelized, new churches have come into being, and many other young men and women have been called to serve God.

For several years previous, Ncham Godwill Chiatoh’s heart opened wide to the spiritual needs of the younger generation. For him, this emphasis was the priority upon which the future of the church and especially the CBC depended. The cry of the young, thirsty for the reality of Christ made him to go for further studies so as to deepen his understanding in divinity and leadership. His humble colportage, through sleepless nights and endless deep personal discussion, he has had to come to grips with a vast range of urgent problems facing up to the anguish of a generation no longer satisfied with mere religious theory or tradition, but wanting to discover the reality of God and the true meaning of life.

Before even becoming General Secretary, Ncham Godwill was already being credited for stemming the tides of charismatism in the Baptist church. Together with the Director of Evangelism and Missions, Ncham Godwill worked had to reconcile these two opposing currents in the church. As new General Secretary, he is expected to consolidate this and more.

The Challenges Ahead

Ncham Godwill is taking over a CBC that is bedeviled with a history of problems and challenges. The very first one staring him in the face is the Belo Field crisis that previous General Secretaries have found difficult overcoming. Added to this crisis, is the unity of the Northern and Coastal church. While urging him to consolidate what his predecessor, Rev Donald Ndichafah left, he is expected to address the issue of new evangelism that is threatening the very existence of the conventional church. Prosperity theology is there waiting for Ncham’s response. Corruption has not spared the church and Godwill has to do something to stop it.

The 42 year old Ncham Godwill before becoming General Secretary has been Bamenda Field Pastor, member of the CBC General Council, Youth Director and others. Born in Njinikom in 1970, Ncham Godwill is married and father of five. He holds a Masters Degree in Divinity. By all intents and purposes, he is a young, upscale church leader.

Fru Ndi’s Candidate Disgraced In Socialist International Elections

Ronald Reagan, a former US President stated that, “Politics is not a bad profession. If you succeed there are many rewards, if you disgrace yourself you can always write a book.”  But Josh Billings in his opinion feels strongly that, “No one can disgrace us but ourselves.” In fact, John Fru Ndi, National Chairman and Joshua Osih, Vice National Chairman of the Social Democratic Front, SDF which is the frontline opposition party in Cameroon sufficiently disgraced themselves politically in Cape Town, South Africa. Oblivious of the universal principles of democracy that obtained at the international level and blinded by their thirst for revenge and their insatiable quest for positions, John Fru Ndi and Joshua Osih in an unexpected twist wanted to compromise the position of Chantal Kambiwa, another SDF militant to the Vice chair of Socialist International. The duo met with doom as Joshua Osih positioned and  projected by Fru Ndi  to dwarf Chantal Kambiwa was seriously whipped in the elections that ensued while Chantal Kambiwa won in grand style, thus retaining her post of Vice President of Socialist International. John Fru Ndi and Joshua Osih who had almost always shouted their opinions like demi-gods in the hall had nowhere to hide their public disgraced, apart from leaving the election hall with their heads buried in their hands and their tails in-between their legs.

Chairman Fru Ndi left Cameroon with a delegation of 9 people to attend the XXIV Congress of the Socialist International in Cape Town South Africa that ran from August 30 to September 1, 2012 with a serious hidden agenda only known to him and Osih. The members of the delegation were: John Fru Ndi, Joshua Osih, Milton Taka, Paul Nkamankeng, Jessy Itambi, Ben Fru Ndi, Chantal Kambiwa, Mbah Francis and James Mbinkar. Although the delegation consisted of people of questionable militancy in the SDF, like the chairman’s son Ben Fru Ndi and others in the delegation, they were part of a Machiavelli plan hatched and nursed by Fru Ndi to dislodge Chantal Kambiwa from her post. The floor rules adopted by most member countries were geared towards presenting one candidate in elective positions and backing that candidate. John Fru Ndi and Joshua Osih had their hidden agenda. Fru Ndi added Joshua Osih’s name to that of Chantal Kambiwa and thus Cameroon had to present two candidates. This posture adopted by Fru Ndi stunned the Socialist International officials and most of the members. In the heat of debates, Fru Ndi proposed to withdraw one candidate and according to political observers, chances were that it was Chantal Kambiwa that was to be sacrificed. The election returning officers sought for a common ground by allowing SDF to present two candidates to the thunderous applause of the women who had long thrown their weight behind Chantal Kambiwa. And in the elections that ensued, Chantal Kambiwa won while Joshua Osih lost woefully as he came amongst the unclassified.  

Political analysts back home hold that Fru Ndi’s decision to present two candidates did not only tantamount to political treason within the SDF, but equally portrayed him as gullible and vindictive. A school of thought holds that for some time now Fru Ndi has not been comfortable with the rising popularity of Chantal Kambiwa and wanted to cut her in midflight. This very school of thought postulates that this sudden hatred of Chantal Kambiwa by Fru Ndi cannot be unrelated to numerous surreptitious attempts by the chairman to entertain a carnal relationship with Chantal Kambiwa and her constant rebuff of the chairman’s amorous advances. And that the chairman wanted to clip her wings by flushing her out and positioning his cohort Joshua Osih, thus stopping her from embarking on international outings in a bid to coerce her to dance to his tune. It is even alleged that the National Chairman reaped some juicy pecuniary benefits in the arrangement to position Joshua Osih. And after the unpalatable results, a fuming and furious Joshua Osih is alleged to have immediately stretched his hands towards the chairman for a refund of what he is alleged to have collected. Yet another school of thought holds that the SDF National  Chairman wanted to position Joshua Osih in Socialist International in order to keep Osih’s eyes away from the position of National Chairman and thus pave the way for his chosen candidate to sail through unperturbed.

Also it is being circulated in subdued tones in SDF high quarters that Fru Ndi wanted to reignite his commitment to Socialist International after he failed to exploit the golden opportunity given the SDF by the election of François Hollande, a socialist as president of France. Against all popular expectation, Fru Ndi stayed away during the swearing in ceremony of François Hollade. This attracted criticisms across the board and generated debates during a NEC meeting. Fru Ndi sprang up in NEC and questioned the raison d’etre of such an exercise where he was expected to hop on a plane just to go and queue up and shake hands with François Hollande and return to Cameroon. But he received whispers from the hall that it was necessary for it was a forum for him to meet other top-notch world leaders and exchange contacts with them, thus galvanizing the position of the SDF on national and international issues.

However, many are saying that it is just because the SDF National Chairman is so vindictive and does not forgive any person who crosses his path that he personally travelled to South Africa to see how he could dislodge Chantal Kambiwa. Those who hold this opinion are constantly pointing to many instances, especially to the recent SDF North West Provincial Conference during which Fru Ndi clearly demonstrated that he is yet to forgive Hon Fobi Nchinda Simon, SDF MP for Bamenda Central and Bali Constituency. During the elective conference, John Fru Ndi violated all conventional wisdom rules of a modern democratic society by openly campaigning on the floor of the elective conference for Hon Fobi Nchinda’s adversary. He wanted to square with Hon Fobi Nchinda Simon who purely in a democratic manner wanted to vie for the post of National Chairman when Fru Ndi had made several public utterances that he wanted to relinquish that position. Fru Ndi in an unprecedented manner swallowed his words later and turned around to contest in an unorthodox manner and unchallenged the positions of National Chairman and Presidential candidate. Yet he has not put behind him Hon Fobi Nchinda’s attempt to vie for the top job of the party, though Hon Fobi was the first to congratulate him when he won and even offered to be his campaign manager. And unlike others Hon obi Nchinda has remained committed to the SDF but he is yet to be forgiven for a crime that never was committed.

Travelling to South Africa, John Fru Ndi who is always full of himself and passes for an all-knowing person erroneously thought that elections and issues pertaining to democracy function in like manner as obtains in the SDF where his words are law. He met with international waterloo as he was given a practical lesson in functional democracy. Why cannot Fru Ndi learn from some other leaders like Abraham Lincoln who stated that, “Destroy your enemy by making him your friend.”  Maybe if he had made Chantal Kambiwa a friend and not a foe, a compromise would have easily been reached to present one candidate which was his candidate. Now that Chantal Kambiwa is sufficiently aware of the National Chairman’s intentions, where does allegiance now sway to and who holds who in awe? He who was disgraced internationally or she who was recognized internationally through a highly competitive election? This further plunges the SDF into disrepute for preaching virtue and practicing vice. Power to the people has become power to a selected few by the National Chairman and nothing to the people. What a shame. Anyway Fru Ndi has one option, writing a book.

Arrests of NW Mayors for Misappropriation to Extend to Bui Division This Week

- Batibo Mayor Denied Bail Again; Mbengwi, Ndop, Andek, Balikumbat Risks Transferred To Bamenda Prison

By Tetuh Mbah

Despite his boasts and resistance that he cannot be picked-up, Wasum Augustine, Mayor of Balikumbat council has since spent a week at the Ndop prison. He was the last mayor in Ngoketunjia to have been picked-up over the scam in the sale of communal stamps, which saw the state treasury, running short of some 163.690.000 FCFA. With the chapter closed for Momo and Ngoketunjia mayors, Chronicle gathered that the arrest web extends to Bui division this week, with Mbon Wilfred, the former mayor of Mbiame council to be hooked. Yet, allegations are rife that the mayors of Mbengwi, Andek, Ndop, Babessi who have been detained at their various divisional prisons, may be ferried to meet Mayor Lawrence Tenoh of Batibo at the Bamenda regional/central prison.

Mbon Wilfred, former mayor of Mbiame is accused to have misappropriated some 6 million FCFA being revenue from communal stamps, just as a certain Kum Simon Buh, a businessman in Mbiame linked with 8 million FCFA. What has baffled commentators is how a businessman came in contact with communal stamps.

Meanwhile, Lawrence Ndangoh Tenoh, mayor of Batibo, who was the first to have been arrested, appeared at the Batibo court of first instance, last Friday, September 7, 2012. He is the only mayor detained outside his division, though Chronicle gathered that he had completed the payment of the 17.3 million FCFA, charged of having misappropriated.

Tenoh was in court (chambers) yet no bail was granted to him. Chronicle gathered that a dramatic twist in his affair, is the fact that the Examining Magistrate was changed. Another was designated, whom Chronicle learnt, would begin fresh investigations when Tenoh re-appears in chambers on September 20, 2012.

Worthy to note that when Tenoh first appeared before the Examining Magistrate in Batibo some 5 weeks ago, he was granted bail. But when ferried to the Bamenda prison to finalize his release documents, this was denied. Chronicle learnt that instructions came from Yaounde that Tenoh’s crime of misappropriation was unbailable. He had since remained in custody at the Bamenda prison.

Tenoh’s other colleagues in Momo division are helmed at the Mbengwi prison, just like the mayors of Ndop, Babessi and Balikumbat in Ngoketunjia, detained at the Ndop prison. Last weekend, Chronicle gathered that Yaounde had instructed that all the mayors be bundled but to the Bamenda prison, for obvious reason: that following security reports, the penitentiary authorities of the Mbengwi and Ndop prisons have been laxed over the ‘VIP’ prisoners. Moreso, to shun criticisms as to why only the Batito mayor is detained in Bamenda for a crime his other colleagues too committed.

The law Chronicle has been told, is clear about the present deadlock within the Batibo, Mbengwi, Andek, Ndop, Babessi and Balikumbat councils. A week ago, a source at the ministry of territorial administration and decentralization, MINATD hinted Chronicle that instructions had been dished out to the North West administration, with the Momo and Ngoketunjia senior divisional officers, SDOs alerted.

It is expected that not long, new elections of mayors of Batibo, Mbengwi, Andek in Momo division on the one hand and Ndop, Babessi and Balikumbat in Ngoketunjia on the other would hold. Yet, Adolph Lele Lafrique, North West Governor is presently observing his annual leave. It is believed that once he resumes, action about electing new mayors, would be speedy.

Even though the accused mayors have the same charges, Tah George Mbah, mayor of Mbengwi has other matters. The Andek, Mbengwi mayors would appear before the examining magistrate on September 11, 2012. Chronicle has been told that none of them would be released. Yet, Tah George has another criminal charge, proffered against him. Chronicle gathered that it comes up in September 17 and a Situation Directe over the issue of ghost contracts on September 26, 2012.

Mobilization however hots up, for the impending election of new mayors for Batibo, Mbengwi and Andek in Momo and Ndop, Babessi and Balikumbat in Ngoketunjia. With the case in Mbengwi, Chronicle gathered that Hon PC Fonso, the kingmaker wants a certain Odilia Fominyen to be imposed, not even Edna Mbah- the district chair or Awamdam, the first deputy, preferred by the SDO. Yet, following Chronicle’s sampling, it is instead an outsider Joshua Ndingwan Mukuro on the lips of majority of the councillors.

For Batibo, Councillor Werewum Maurice, recently transferred punitively to Furu Awah, confided in Chronicle that he has no interest to conclude the Tenoh mandate. For Andek, everyone is poised to see the first deputy Akwaifeh wrap up and even continue. (Affair a suivre…)