BUEA, Cameroon – May 30, 2025 — Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute’s visit to Buea, May 29 was marked by arranged displays of support and heavy security presence, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the Southern Cameroons.
Upon arrival, PM Ngute was greeted by a crowd adorned in Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) uniforms, chanting slogans of unity. However, eyewitness reports said that many of these individuals were transported from Douala and compensated for their participation, casting doubt on the authenticity of the reception.
The Prime Minister’s visit was characterized by an overwhelming security apparatus, including armed escorts and surveillance teams. Observers noted that the heightened security measures indicated apprehension about potential disruptions from Ambazonians, particularly the Ambazonia Restoration Forces, who remain very active in the area.
In his address, PM Ngute referred to Buea as his ” home,” ignoring his roots in Ndian. Ironically, the lack of security, infrastructure and ongoing conflict in Ndian have rendered it inaccessible, even to its native son. This highlights the broader issues of underdevelopment and neglect that have fueled Ambazonian sentiments.
If anything, the visit aimed to project an image of normalcy and governmental control in the Southern zone. However, the reliance on staged support and the inability to engage with local communities underscore a disconnect between the government’s narrative and the lived experiences of the Ambazonian population.
The ongoing conflict in The Southern Cameroons has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. The LRC government’s approach, characterized by military interventions and symbolic gestures, has failed to address the root causes of the conflict. PM Ngute’s visit, rather than bridging divides, further entrenches feelings of marginalization among the local populace.
Dion Ngute’s visit to Buea is a microcosm of the broader challenges facing Cameroon. The government’s emphasis on optics over genuine engagement continues to hinder efforts toward a sustainable resolution of the Anglophone conflict. Without addressing the underlying issues of annexation, governance, infrastructure, and representation, such visits are perceived as being mere political theater.
