Buea – It is imperative that we continually reassess the trajectory of our struggle, ensuring we remain steadfast in our pursuit of total independence and sovereignty. The ongoing liberation war is not a call for compromise or assimilation but a clarion demand for the restoration of our dignity, freedom, and nationhood. Against this backdrop, the emergence of the APJ (Alliance for Peace and Justice) and their collaboration with the International Communities Organization (ICO) raises significant concerns that merit thorough examination.
A Trojan Horse for Autonomy
The APJ, in conjunction with the ICO, presents itself as a mediator of peace and justice. However, a close analysis of their peace plan reveals a glaring omission—the independence of Ambazonia. Instead, the APJ advocates for “autonomy” within the framework of a united Cameroon. This is not the vision for which thousands of Ambazonians have laid down their lives.
Their approach seems designed to recycle the idea of the Special Status offered during Cameroon’s so-called Grand National Dialogue. This so-called status was a deceptive ploy to appease international scrutiny while maintaining the subjugation of Southern Cameroons. Similarly, the APJ’s plan centers on a ceasefire and dialogue with only face-value ambiguous mention of the root causes of the conflict:
Autonomy, as proposed by the APJ, is a baited trap. Proponents argue that autonomy, followed by a referendum, could eventually allow Ambazonians to decide their future. However, history provides ample evidence that such processes are fraught with manipulation and delays. By the time a referendum question surfaces—if it ever does—LRC would have already dismantled the very foundation of Ambazonia’s resistance.
A ceasefire under such terms is not a step toward freedom; it is a prelude to disarmament and demobilization. Without the ability to defend ourselves, Ambazonia will be left vulnerable to further exploitation and oppression. It is akin to surrendering the sword while trusting the oppressor to honor promises of peace.
The ICO and APJ: Questionable Motives
The ICO and its local collaborators, including Capo Daniel, Dr. JJ Asongu, and others, have conspicuously avoided the term Ambazonia. Their rhetoric focuses on “Southern Cameroons” or “Anglophone regions,” subtly undermining the identity of our struggle. This linguistic choice is not accidental; it aligns with their vision of keeping Ambazonia shackled within the framework of one Cameroon.
By excluding the independence option from their peace plan, the ICO and APJ reveal their bias. Their mission is not to secure justice for Ambazonia but to perpetuate the status quo under the guise of peace.
What Ambazonians Set Out to Achieve
It is crucial to revisit the goals of our liberation war. Ambazonians have never fought for half-measures or ambiguous autonomy. Our struggle is rooted in the historical betrayal of 1961, when the United Nations and the British government facilitated our forced union with French Cameroon, ignoring our right to self-determination.
Since then, our people have endured assimilation, marginalization, cultural erasure, and economic exploitation. The blood of our martyrs demands nothing less than full independence. Any solution that falls short of this is a betrayal of their sacrifice.
History is replete with examples of liberation movements undermined by half measures. The ICO and APJ’s plan mirrors similar strategies used in other contexts to pacify resistance without addressing the core grievances of oppressed peoples. For instance:
- South Sudan: Decades of autonomy within Sudan failed to prevent continued exploitation and marginalization until full independence was finally achieved in 2011.
- Western Sahara: Promises of autonomy under Moroccan rule have resulted in prolonged conflict and stalled referendums, leaving the Sahrawi people in a state of limbo.
The lesson is clear: autonomy within a hostile framework is not a stepping stone to freedom; it is a trap designed to dissipate resistance and legitimize oppression.
Ambazonians must discern between genuine leadership and opportunistic collaboration. Leaders who align with the APJ’s peace plan are complicit in the dilution of our cause. Their actions betray the sacrifices made by Ambazonians on the battlefield, in detention centers, and in exile.
True leadership does not waver in the face of international pressure or the allure of compromise. It stands firm in its commitment to the people’s aspirations.
Our path to independence requires unwavering resolve and clarity of purpose. Here are key steps Ambazonians must take to safeguard our struggle:
- Reject Compromises: Any plan that does not explicitly recognize Ambazonia’s right to sovereignty is unacceptable.
- Strengthen Unity: The divide-and-conquer tactics employed by LRC and its collaborators must not weaken our collective resolve. Ambazonian factions must prioritize unity over personal or political differences.
- Support Self-Defense: A strong defense is critical to securing our negotiating position. Disarmament under the guise of a ceasefire will only embolden LRC to continue its atrocities.
Final Warning
Let us not be deceived by the siren call of peace without justice. The APJ and ICO’s plan is a sophisticated attempt to derail our independence movement. Their narrative may sound appealing to those weary of war, but it offers no real solution to our plight. Instead, it seeks to entrench the very structures of oppression we are fighting to dismantle.
Our liberation war is not a battle for autonomy or reform; it is a fight for freedom and sovereignty. Let us honor the sacrifices of our heroes by staying true to the cause. No half measures. No compromises. Independence or nothing!
