Explaining the special status to Cameroonians in the two Anglophone regions has been as daunting as archiving the evolution of the socio-political instability plaguing these regions for over 7 years now.
Typically, the question of how special the “special status” is born from the Major National Dialogue of 2019 springs up. Clearly put as the addition of the House of Chiefs and the Office of the Public Independent Conciliator only to the English regions, it takes more to explain what these organizations bring to the table different from the tons of already existing state created ministries, committees, bodies and the Regional Councils in the other 8 regions of Cameroon.
Perplexed, many have termed the special status a move by government to recycle retired/retiring civil servants/administrators to keep feeding fat from government bans. This may be inspired by the age and life bracket of the stakeholders or how they answer technical questions about their institutions (Regional Council, House of chiefs and Public Independent Conciliator).
The Public Independent Conciliator (PIC) of the North West, Tamfu Simon Fai is adding meaning and text to the institution for the many who needed a clear cut perspective. It was created to solve disputes between local collectivities and its users.
In a report published on March 8, councils in its coverage analysed from a survey, PIC highlighted municipalities taking the lead in corruption and mismanagement. Councils far away from their people yet with used up budget allocations.
Mayors clearly were the ones picking the shots of PIC especially those who hand pocket the councils or busy about other businesses without first prioritising the council area and it’s business for the good and welfare of the people. The stray shots fell on councillors too. Those in some “red zones” who cash out from council sessions which never held yet with prolific minutes. Having little or no examination of council activities and prospects.
The torch shone right down to council workers who took upon themselves to become mini gods in council offices. These who rudely talk to denizens, charge for free services or exorbitant fees and decide who to or not to serve at their own discretion.
The challenge of insecurity lies at the bottom of the honest and crooked council manager’s reaction. That cannot be completely undermined but being mindful of their election into office in a generally worse climate than now in 2020. That is likely not most concrete to say. In followup, PIC organised a session first week of April with members of the Regional Executive Council and Mayors to review the issues raised in the 2023 report.
The effective use of the media to communicate it’s activities is worth mentioning. The social media presence of NW PIC is also commendable, with a regularly updated Facebook page.
Alas! Many seem to begin understanding the special status, instituted by President Paul Biya after the Major National Dialogue of 2019. But maybe they will better understand when all the offices comprising of the special status do exceptional well.