Houston, TX – Paul Biya’s recent New Year address to the people of Cameroon was a glaring display of insensitivity and detachment, underscoring the tragic reality of a leader far removed from the struggles of his citizens. At 91 years old, with 42 years of autocratic rule behind him, Biya’s address not only defied reason but also added salt to the wounds of a nation in turmoil. His audacious call for Ambazonian fighters to lay down their arms and his tacit announcement of yet another bid for office reveals a leader who is both out of touch and wholly unconcerned with the well-being of his people.
Under Biya’s reign, Cameroon has become a shadow of its potential. Decades of mismanagement, corruption, and neglect have left the country without essential infrastructure or services. Roads are impassable, electricity is a luxury rather than a right, classrooms are non-existent in many regions, and hospitals are mere buildings without functioning equipment or adequate staff. This is the legacy of a leader who has clung to power for over four decades.
Instead of acknowledging this dismal record and gracefully stepping aside, Biya hinted at yet another term in office, effectively telling Cameroonians that his rule will only end with his death. How wicked and selfish can one man be? But even more appalling are the sycophants and bootlickers who enable him, men and women who are willing to kneel before this dying despot, proclaiming him eternal leader while the country crumbles around them.
Nowhere is this wickedness more apparent than in the ongoing Ambazonia conflict, a conflict that has devastated the economic and socio-political fabric of Cameroon. In his address, Biya reiterated his tired refrain, calling on Ambazonian fighters to lay down their arms. This plea, repeated annually for the past nine years, rings hollow to anyone familiar with the realities on the ground.
Ambazonians have made it clear: they will not disarm on Biya’s terms, nor will they accept half-measures or imposed solutions. The freedom fighters of Ambazonia are not pawns in Biya’s game of survival; they are resolute individuals fighting for a cause greater than themselves. They demand mutual dialogue and a satisfactory agreement that recognizes their right to self-determination.
Paul Biya’s persistent calls for disarmament without offering meaningful solutions are not just futile—they are insulting. He has said the same thing for nine years, with zero progress. Why does he think anyone, especially in Ambazonia, still listens to him?
If anything, Biya’s address has only strengthened Ambazonia’s resolve. Recruitment efforts for more freedom fighters in Ambazonia will be intensified, with a focus on county-by-county and LGA-by-LGA mobilization. Ambazonia understands that the time to fight is now or never. The call to arms is louder, the determination fiercer, and the unity stronger.
To Biya and his enablers: Ambazonia will not lay down arms simply to placate your egos or sustain your corrupt war economy. Many within Biya’s circle profit from this war, pushing him to continue it for their gain. But let it be clear: Paul Biya will die before Ambazonia lays down its arms.
Adding further insult, Biya addressed his nation on January 1st—a day ostensibly marking Cameroon’s independence—without even acknowledging the occasion. How can a leader who refuses to celebrate his country’s supposed independence claim to lead with legitimacy? Ambazonians have rejected this hypocrisy and will continue to do so.
The people of Ambazonia have declared that they will never again celebrate Cameroon’s 20th May so-called National Day. For Ambazonians, the true independence struggle lies in breaking free from the oppressive grip of Biya’s regime. On February 11th, Ambazonia will enforce a total lockdown, a stark reminder to Pual Biya that their fight for freedom is steadfast.
To all Ambazonians, the message is clear: the fight is not over, and the time to act is now. Biya’s regime is weakened, desperate, and running out of options. This is not the time for complacency but for support, commitment, unity and resilience. The future of Ambazonia depends on the actions taken today.
Paul Biya must understand that his delusions of grandeur will not be enough to sustain his rule. His calls for disarmament will fall on deaf ears, his promises of leadership will be ignored, and his attempts to cling to power will be resisted. He has become a relic of a bygone era, a leader whose time has long passed.
Ambazonia is rising, and no amount of rhetoric, oppression, or sycophantic praise will stop it. Biya’s legacy is one of failure and repression. Ambazonia’s future is one of hope and freedom. And that is a battle worth fighting for, no matter how long it takes.