Courageous Stewardship

« I do so Swear » With this declaration in English on 6 November 1982 Paul Biya solemnly committed himself to the highly demanding tasks of nation building at its helm.
Cameroon’s first Head of state, President Ahmadou Ahidjo, who had surprised his compatriots, with an unexpected resignation from the highest office had to be replaced by his constitutional successor who then was Prime Minister, Paul Biya. The successor’s rich academic background and administrative experience in government, inspired President Ahidjo to assure Cameroonians that he was handing over power to a competent compatriot who would ably continue with the stewardship he had started. 
When he solemnly pledged before his compatriots, law makers and diplomats to holistically serve his country in respect of the constitution, Paul Biya and fellow Cameroonians did not, and could not have known that he was assuming a highly- demanding task which he would be executing for over four decades. Yet, this has happened despite the challenges and other problems, African nations face despite political independence. Fortunately, they are non-aligned but cooperative with former colonial powers.
As Cameroonians and their friends of our “global village” celebrate the joy of survival and achievements despite the storms of life that threaten the social and economic stability of nations, we thank God for blessing us with the enviable spirit of unity, love, and tolerance. Furthermore, we need a leader who with, courage and commitment faces squarely problems triggered by colonialism, disasters, protectionist trends, and narrow patriotism.
Although Cameroon’s geopolitical location at the hinge of Africa triggered the multiplicity of races in the country and colonialism aggravated the scenario, fraternal concerns ushered the developments that resulted in the political redress of 1st October 1961. Though considered by some observers a political experiment that would not last, Cameroonians have proven that blood is thicker than water, are determined to sustain their unity.
Despite today’s uncomfortable trends that tempt some compatriots to opt for violence, and separation, most Cameroonians see and believe in the rationale of weathering the storms through dialogue, genuine examination of the causes of problems and adoption of the strategies that keep the country united.
President Paul Biya who inaugurated his administration with the policy of rigour and moralisation has since stood firm on its practice despite the weaknesses of some compatriots who believe more in the blame game, than assessment of their contributions to what mak...