Fuatabong Achaleke "You scratch my back, I scratch your own/ Politics na njangi" ". The real meaning is people are appointed to ministerial positions not only because they are qualified, but to reward those that scratched the backs of the powers that Be. This is done at the detriment of the country and the common man suffers as a result of that. It means the old guard will not be replaced until death do us part. It means the playing field does not need to be level, as long as we blindly support the ruling party. It means recycling the same people over and over, since these individuals are those who are actually scratching the back of the “big man”. It means the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual is the norm of the day. Since power is concentrated in the hands of a single individual who can do and undo everybody must dance to the tune that individual plays. You are not appointed to serve the people, but to appease the people. Appeasing the people helps maintain the present statuesque. Since those who are appointed do not know what will happen next, most of the time is spent taking care of their own wants. “Bellytics” becomes the norm of the day.
"You scratch my back, I scratch your own" is part of the problem and not the solution. Do those who claim are representing us actually do that? If they are representing us, why is it that they are not interested in leveling the playing field for all of us? I mean making sure that we have a good constitution that is respected by all. A constitution that sees beyond their time in office.
"You scratch my back, I scratch your own" is a faulty way of thinking and those propagating it can not be trusted. That is why those waiting for any benefits from such a flawed system are in for a very long wait.
Instead of asking for our own son or daughter to be appointed, we should be demanding for better laws and a level playing field for all. The interest of the entire country and its people irrespective of their political, religious or ethnic affiliation should determine appointments to all office in the land. Those appointed or elected should be those who are qualified and are willing to serve the people and not those who are only interested in scratching the backs of those who appointed them.
Does it surprise us that little is being done to move our country forward? Things will change when we stop operating by the principle of "You scratch my back, I scratch your own". For this principle is pregnant with a lot of deceit and is an instrument of manipulation, domination and control. No good is going to come out of this. At its best "You scratch my back, I scratch your own" will benefit a few individuals and those closest to them.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
The end justifies the means
This picture speaks volumes about the state of our country and how most people approach live in Cameroon.
Let us not be quick to pass judgment on this "creative rider" who has successfully looked for a way to maximize his bike. For he is operating on the principle of everything goes that is very prevalent in Cameroon and amongst many Cameroonians. Yes everything goes and laws do not matter. If I want to get a job, I will do all in my power to get that job. I will bribe the "big man" and if it means I have to go out will him then let it be. If I find myself out of the country and have difficulties obtaining papers, I will lie about the state of the country and seek for political asylum. Money speaks and those who have money do not necessary have to obey the law. Elections are for those in power to win perpetually. The ruling party always wins. Once chairman, you are chairman for life. One man one vote is a strange concept. The end justifies the means.
Yes, the end justifies the means. In this case what matters is that the rider of the bike wants to move his six passengers from point A to point B. Put your self in the man's shoes. He is saving time, money and maximizing profit. What is wrong in it? Is he not riding his bike that he bought with his hard earned money? The children may be his children. If yes, is he not having the right to carry his own children in anyway he sees fit? Even if the children are not his, another adult must have instructed him to carry the children. What is wrong if two consenting adults decide and agree to do something?
Mr. Chris Ajua says. " I call this mode of transportation: "Unsafe At Any Speed!" So many traffic laws are being broken here and I feel something should be done about it".
I hear him say laws are being broken. Therefore the action of the rider has turned an otherwise safe mode of transportation into a hazardous mode of transportation. When societal laws are broken, the society becomes unsafe for everybody. As such all laws of society must be obeyed by everyone for us to be safe. We have to stop operating by the principle of “everything goes” for the truth is that everything does not go. We must stop rationalizing our disregard for the laws of the land, for two wrongs can not make a right. Therefore the end does not always justify the means. How do we expect to come out of the present quark mire the country is in, if we insist on operating by the faulty principles?
We are talking about the owner of this bike, because he is broking the law in the open. How many of us are different from him? You may be fast to say, your action did not endanger anybody. You did what you did because you had to survive. I have one question for you. Did your dire circumstances force you to break the law? I have not asked, is everyone else doing the same thing that you were “forced” to do? When you break the law, no matter how small it is, you are placing others in harms way. For your action is encouraging others to break other parts of the law. At the end of the day most parts of the law are broken and in some cases the whole law is broken and the resulting consequence is a broken system.
A system where nothing works. A system where without a “God Father” qualified graduates can not get jobs. Hard working students do not get the grades they deserve, but grades are giving to their mates who go out with their teachers. Basic medical facilities, roads, schools, etc are lacking because some contractor, had to oil the lips of numerous “big men”. A system were "man know man "is the norm.
What is the need waiting for your turn when the man at the counter is your friend etc. No doubt there is so much confusion and infighting in the country. No doubt we are overwhelmed by the hopeless surrounding us. The US ambassador recently echoed this in her speech. We have given up all hope. Are we waiting for a messiah to come bail us out? There is no messiah. We can not keep breaking the laws of our land and expect the country to prosper. How can there be stability when our constitution is changed whenever the powers that be deem it necessary to modify the constitution to benefit them? We must level the playing filed for every Cameroonian and make sure our laws are not seasonal.
Our only hope is the rule of law and not a new political ideology. We have to start obeying the law and encouraging others to do same. We must denounce those who break our laws, instead of sitting them on the high table, because they have built a big house and came to the occasion in the latest car. Are we not aware that it is questionable, when a civil servant of certain category amasses a certain amount of wealth?
Let the change begin with you.
Monday, June 22, 2009
U.S. Ambassador Janet E. Garvey: Cameroonians Should Take Ownership of their Country
Remarks by the U.S. Ambassador to Cameroon H.E. Janet E. Garvey To the American Chamber of Commerce - Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Good afternoon, and thank you for inviting me to address you this afternoon.
I am always happy to come speak to the American Chamber of Commerce because you all always eat so much better than we do in Yaounde!
Truly, though, I am always excited to attend these meetings because it offers me the opportunity to meet with you, to hear about the successes of American business in Cameroon and, of course, to hear about the challenges you face.
And I do not need to tell you that these are challenging times. Sometimes the news is slow to travel from the center of activity here in Douala to Yaounde, but I can assure you that officials in Yaounde are now recognizing just how much the global economic crisis will affect Cameroon, Cameroonian households, Cameroonian companies, and the government’s ability to implement its ambitious agenda, known as Vision 2035.
You may recall that at one point some months ago, there were those in Cameroon who said that the crisis would not have an impact in Cameroon, that Cameroon was insulated from the financial crisis because Cameroonian institutions were not linked into the global financial system.
Some of these same voices are now complaining that Cameroon is suffering from an economic crisis it did not create. They say Cameroon’s economic woes are not Cameroon’s fault; they say Cameroon’s economic problems are someone else’s responsibility.
It is certainly true that Cameroon did not “create” the global economic crisis. And I think we all recognize that U.S. economic problems have had a broad-reaching impact. President Obama has spoken about the failure of responsibility in managing the U.S. economy, and he has called for a “new era of responsibility” in the United States.
In his inaugural address to the nation, Obama said:
"What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition on the part of every American that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task."
President Obama has returned repeatedly to the theme of responsibility. He did so again last week, in his speech in Cairo. He has not sought to find excuses or scapegoats for the economic crisis and he has emphasized that we each bear responsibility for our own lives.
So how would we apply this call for responsibility to Cameroon?
First, we should be adamant that poor management decisions and irresponsibility in the U.S. do not excuse poor management decisions and irresponsibility in other countries, including in Cameroon.
A message of responsibility in Cameroon would emphasize that Cameroonians- -in government, in business, in civil society--are ultimately responsible for the destiny of their country.
On the economic front, Cameroonians have the ability to make their economy more diverse and less dependent on oil revenues. Cameroonians have the ability to orient the economy towards its neighbors, to protect it from the inevitable swings in the global economy and commodity prices. Cameroonians have the ability to demand that their budget be transparent and well-spent.
For the last several years, the Cameroonian Government has spent less than 75% of the money it has budgeted for investment. The money is there, the needs exist, so why are these funds not being spent and, more importantly, what are Cameroonians in and out of the government doing to change the situation?
The World Bank’s Doing Business report has shown that the business climate in Cameroon has gotten worse over each of the last few years, at the same time that Cameroon’s peers were making tremendous improvements. This trend cannot be blamed on the economic crisis!
All this is to say that, if the economic crisis is beyond Cameroonians’ control, no one but Cameroonians can take responsibility for Cameroon’s economy. In my view, there are steps that Cameroon can take, of its own accord, to strengthen the economy during these difficult times and to prepare it for the economic rebound when it does happen.
And the rebound will happen. That is something I think many people miss. The time to think about the economic crisis is not now. Now, it is too late. The time to think about this crisis, in Washington and in Yaounde, was five years ago, when prices were high. Now is the time we should be thinking about the rebound. In Cameroon, that means thinking about how to position Cameroon to benefit from the rebound when it occurs, because it most certainly will. The price for aluminum will likely rise again. The demand for timber will rise again. The demand for rubber will rise again. What are Cameroonians doing, now, to prepare to be sure Cameroon is well-positioned for the next five years?
Cameroonians can influence the policies their government enacts to shape the economy. Cameroonians can control their country’s preparedness to take advantage of global economic good times and to ride out global economic bad times.
Notice I say “Cameroonians” and not “the Government of Cameroon.” I am saying that on purpose, to emphasize the fact that Cameroonians are the master of their own destiny. We all know the imperfections of Cameroon’s democracy, which I will not dwell on today. Nevertheless, the Government is responsive, even if imperfectly, to the demands of Cameroonian stakeholders, whether they be university students, labor unions, taxi drivers, or the business community, which includes you, the American Chamber of Commerce.
Too often, people coming to the Embassy ask us what we are doing to fight corruption, to build roads, to improve infrastructure and education.
I will increasingly respond with a question of my own: What are you doing? What is the American Chamber of Commerce doing to make its views known to the Government regarding the pressing need for infrastructure improvements?
You will notice a common theme in the public statements that I and other U.S. officials will make in Cameroon over the coming year. We are going to focus on this theme, that Cameroon belongs to Cameroonians, that Cameroonians possess the power to shape the course of their own nation, that Cameroonians should stop talking about their country as though it is separate from them, their government as though it is not their own.
Often, when the Government of Cameroon takes a particular decision, we receive phone calls, emails, letters and personal entreaties asking us to pressure the Government of Cameroon to change its decision or to take a new decision.
Cameroonians call on the U.S. Embassy as though we are the appropriate way to influence their own government, as though we should be the ones to speak and act for them.
That is not to say that we do not take an interest in the challenges that confront the Cameroonian people. We are proud of the strong and growing friendship between Cameroon and the United States.
But the biggest obstacle to Cameroon’s development, the biggest obstacle that prevents Cameroon from achieving its full potential, is Cameroonians’ lack of ownership for their own nation, their own government, their own communities.
This is not a dilemma unique to Cameroon. Barack Obama reenergized the United States with his determined insistence that “Yes, We Can.” “Yes, We Can” is more than a partisan political slogan, and its significance is more lasting than a presidential campaign. It is an affirmation of hope, of responsibility, of ownership. When we say “yes, we can,” it means also, that yes, we should, and yes, we will.
I am troubled by the spirit of resignation, almost of despair, that seems to prevail among many of my Cameroonian friends these days. Like everyone else in Cameroon, I was disappointed that the Indomitable Lions did not notch a victory in Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium last Sunday. But I was amazed to see how many people were ready to give up, to say that it is all over, that Cameroon is finished. There are still four games remaining, and Cameroon’s prospects are still very much alive. I am looking forward to the next match, with a spirit of “Yes, We Can!”, and I believe Cameroon should still be aiming to be a part of the World Cup next year in South Africa. I hope that Cameroonians—the players on the pitch and the supporters cheering them on—will adopt the same attitude, not just for football, but for all of the challenges that confront Cameroon today.
I know the obstacles that exist in Cameroon as they do in every country around the world. After almost two years in Cameroon, I know about the problems, but the problems do not interest me any longer. I am more interested in learning what Cameroonians have in mind as solutions, how Cameroonians intend to take charge of their country’s destiny.
It was the great American businessman, Henry Ford, who said “Whether you think you can, or think you cannot, you will be right.”
This is a message I hope to deliver throughout Cameroon over the coming months, and I deliver to the American Chamber of Commerce today.
Your membership represents diverse nationalities and a broad range of sectors, but you have a shared stake in the future of Cameroon and a shared responsibility to do what you can to help Cameroon recognize its potential.
The global economic crisis has, in fact, presented you with an opportunity that I hope you will seize. With a renewed focus on how to jumpstart economic growth and create jobs, Cameroonian decision makers will be more open than ever to the recommendations of the business community. The AMCHAM, this room, is filled with leaders who possess invaluable knowledge, who can provide wise advice about what steps are needed to put Cameroon on better economic footing. What are you doing to be sure your wisdom is heard? What are you doing to be sure Cameroon is better positioned for the next global economic swing, whatever it may be?
I will admit: I am not coming to you with solutions. I am coming instead with a call to action. The AMCHAM has a responsibility to advance American business interests in Cameroon, but that entails a broader responsibility, to help Cameroon recognize its potential as a leader in the region. The AMCHAM can play a crucial role in shaping Cameroon’s future for the better. I hope you all will take on that responsibility. Thank you.
Originally published on the US Embassy website
Good afternoon, and thank you for inviting me to address you this afternoon.
I am always happy to come speak to the American Chamber of Commerce because you all always eat so much better than we do in Yaounde!
Truly, though, I am always excited to attend these meetings because it offers me the opportunity to meet with you, to hear about the successes of American business in Cameroon and, of course, to hear about the challenges you face.
And I do not need to tell you that these are challenging times. Sometimes the news is slow to travel from the center of activity here in Douala to Yaounde, but I can assure you that officials in Yaounde are now recognizing just how much the global economic crisis will affect Cameroon, Cameroonian households, Cameroonian companies, and the government’s ability to implement its ambitious agenda, known as Vision 2035.
You may recall that at one point some months ago, there were those in Cameroon who said that the crisis would not have an impact in Cameroon, that Cameroon was insulated from the financial crisis because Cameroonian institutions were not linked into the global financial system.
Some of these same voices are now complaining that Cameroon is suffering from an economic crisis it did not create. They say Cameroon’s economic woes are not Cameroon’s fault; they say Cameroon’s economic problems are someone else’s responsibility.
It is certainly true that Cameroon did not “create” the global economic crisis. And I think we all recognize that U.S. economic problems have had a broad-reaching impact. President Obama has spoken about the failure of responsibility in managing the U.S. economy, and he has called for a “new era of responsibility” in the United States.
In his inaugural address to the nation, Obama said:
"What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition on the part of every American that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task."
President Obama has returned repeatedly to the theme of responsibility. He did so again last week, in his speech in Cairo. He has not sought to find excuses or scapegoats for the economic crisis and he has emphasized that we each bear responsibility for our own lives.
So how would we apply this call for responsibility to Cameroon?
First, we should be adamant that poor management decisions and irresponsibility in the U.S. do not excuse poor management decisions and irresponsibility in other countries, including in Cameroon.
A message of responsibility in Cameroon would emphasize that Cameroonians- -in government, in business, in civil society--are ultimately responsible for the destiny of their country.
On the economic front, Cameroonians have the ability to make their economy more diverse and less dependent on oil revenues. Cameroonians have the ability to orient the economy towards its neighbors, to protect it from the inevitable swings in the global economy and commodity prices. Cameroonians have the ability to demand that their budget be transparent and well-spent.
For the last several years, the Cameroonian Government has spent less than 75% of the money it has budgeted for investment. The money is there, the needs exist, so why are these funds not being spent and, more importantly, what are Cameroonians in and out of the government doing to change the situation?
The World Bank’s Doing Business report has shown that the business climate in Cameroon has gotten worse over each of the last few years, at the same time that Cameroon’s peers were making tremendous improvements. This trend cannot be blamed on the economic crisis!
All this is to say that, if the economic crisis is beyond Cameroonians’ control, no one but Cameroonians can take responsibility for Cameroon’s economy. In my view, there are steps that Cameroon can take, of its own accord, to strengthen the economy during these difficult times and to prepare it for the economic rebound when it does happen.
And the rebound will happen. That is something I think many people miss. The time to think about the economic crisis is not now. Now, it is too late. The time to think about this crisis, in Washington and in Yaounde, was five years ago, when prices were high. Now is the time we should be thinking about the rebound. In Cameroon, that means thinking about how to position Cameroon to benefit from the rebound when it occurs, because it most certainly will. The price for aluminum will likely rise again. The demand for timber will rise again. The demand for rubber will rise again. What are Cameroonians doing, now, to prepare to be sure Cameroon is well-positioned for the next five years?
Cameroonians can influence the policies their government enacts to shape the economy. Cameroonians can control their country’s preparedness to take advantage of global economic good times and to ride out global economic bad times.
Notice I say “Cameroonians” and not “the Government of Cameroon.” I am saying that on purpose, to emphasize the fact that Cameroonians are the master of their own destiny. We all know the imperfections of Cameroon’s democracy, which I will not dwell on today. Nevertheless, the Government is responsive, even if imperfectly, to the demands of Cameroonian stakeholders, whether they be university students, labor unions, taxi drivers, or the business community, which includes you, the American Chamber of Commerce.
Too often, people coming to the Embassy ask us what we are doing to fight corruption, to build roads, to improve infrastructure and education.
I will increasingly respond with a question of my own: What are you doing? What is the American Chamber of Commerce doing to make its views known to the Government regarding the pressing need for infrastructure improvements?
You will notice a common theme in the public statements that I and other U.S. officials will make in Cameroon over the coming year. We are going to focus on this theme, that Cameroon belongs to Cameroonians, that Cameroonians possess the power to shape the course of their own nation, that Cameroonians should stop talking about their country as though it is separate from them, their government as though it is not their own.
Often, when the Government of Cameroon takes a particular decision, we receive phone calls, emails, letters and personal entreaties asking us to pressure the Government of Cameroon to change its decision or to take a new decision.
Cameroonians call on the U.S. Embassy as though we are the appropriate way to influence their own government, as though we should be the ones to speak and act for them.
That is not to say that we do not take an interest in the challenges that confront the Cameroonian people. We are proud of the strong and growing friendship between Cameroon and the United States.
But the biggest obstacle to Cameroon’s development, the biggest obstacle that prevents Cameroon from achieving its full potential, is Cameroonians’ lack of ownership for their own nation, their own government, their own communities.
This is not a dilemma unique to Cameroon. Barack Obama reenergized the United States with his determined insistence that “Yes, We Can.” “Yes, We Can” is more than a partisan political slogan, and its significance is more lasting than a presidential campaign. It is an affirmation of hope, of responsibility, of ownership. When we say “yes, we can,” it means also, that yes, we should, and yes, we will.
I am troubled by the spirit of resignation, almost of despair, that seems to prevail among many of my Cameroonian friends these days. Like everyone else in Cameroon, I was disappointed that the Indomitable Lions did not notch a victory in Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium last Sunday. But I was amazed to see how many people were ready to give up, to say that it is all over, that Cameroon is finished. There are still four games remaining, and Cameroon’s prospects are still very much alive. I am looking forward to the next match, with a spirit of “Yes, We Can!”, and I believe Cameroon should still be aiming to be a part of the World Cup next year in South Africa. I hope that Cameroonians—the players on the pitch and the supporters cheering them on—will adopt the same attitude, not just for football, but for all of the challenges that confront Cameroon today.
I know the obstacles that exist in Cameroon as they do in every country around the world. After almost two years in Cameroon, I know about the problems, but the problems do not interest me any longer. I am more interested in learning what Cameroonians have in mind as solutions, how Cameroonians intend to take charge of their country’s destiny.
It was the great American businessman, Henry Ford, who said “Whether you think you can, or think you cannot, you will be right.”
This is a message I hope to deliver throughout Cameroon over the coming months, and I deliver to the American Chamber of Commerce today.
Your membership represents diverse nationalities and a broad range of sectors, but you have a shared stake in the future of Cameroon and a shared responsibility to do what you can to help Cameroon recognize its potential.
The global economic crisis has, in fact, presented you with an opportunity that I hope you will seize. With a renewed focus on how to jumpstart economic growth and create jobs, Cameroonian decision makers will be more open than ever to the recommendations of the business community. The AMCHAM, this room, is filled with leaders who possess invaluable knowledge, who can provide wise advice about what steps are needed to put Cameroon on better economic footing. What are you doing to be sure your wisdom is heard? What are you doing to be sure Cameroon is better positioned for the next global economic swing, whatever it may be?
I will admit: I am not coming to you with solutions. I am coming instead with a call to action. The AMCHAM has a responsibility to advance American business interests in Cameroon, but that entails a broader responsibility, to help Cameroon recognize its potential as a leader in the region. The AMCHAM can play a crucial role in shaping Cameroon’s future for the better. I hope you all will take on that responsibility. Thank you.
Originally published on the US Embassy website
Saturday, June 13, 2009
The Douala Supreme court hits hard on embezzlement case: Siyam Siewe gets a life sentence
The Douala Supreme court hits hard on embezzlement case: Siyam Siewe gets a life sentence
12/06/2009 The former General Manager of the Doula Ports Authority and three others have been sentenced to life in prison.
The verdict came at about 8:30 PM yesterday 11th of June 2009 at the Douala Appeals Court. The court also confirmed the 15 year sentence given to the former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Port Authority, Edouard Nathanael Etonde Ekotto while the former Deputy General Manager, Simon Pierre Ewondo Noah who was earlier sentenced to ten years in prison shall now serve fifteen years.
Siyam Siewe was appealing a 30 year prison sentence handed down by the Wouri Court of First Instance on 13th of December 2007.
Judgment was overturned for nine of the thirteen accused during the said trial; eight received very severe sentences but for Teguel Maurice, an army officer who was sentenced to one year in jail though absent from the court proceedings yesterday.
This second verdict concerning the State of Cameroon and Ports Authority against Alphonse Siyam Siewe former General Manager was read out in a tense atmosphere.
To ensure order in case of an eventuality, about 150 gendarmes and police officers were put on duty.
Some members of the Bar Council were outraged at the sentencing of Etienne Abessolo, a lawyer amongst the accused. This is the final verdict;
1. Alphonse Siyam Siewe; life in prison
2. Assana Mba’a Thomson; life in prison
3. Kandem Bathelemy; life in prison
4. Siewe Nintcheu; 25 years
5. Etienne Abessolo; 15 years
6. Edouard Nathanael Etonde Ekotto; 15 years
7. Simon Pierre Ewodo Noah; 15 years
8. Babila Tita; 15 years
9. Martin Zibi; 15 years
10. Cheukam Marie epouse Tchatcho; 15 years
11. Faustin Dingana; 15 years
12. Wensitcheu Nincheu; 15 years
13. Teguel Maurice; 1 year
Apart from the time in jail, they have been ordered to pay 75 378 308 010 francs in damages.
Alphonse Siyam Siewe who is former General Manager of the Ports Authorities has also been Minister of Water and Energy.
Pamela Bidjocka, Editor
12/06/2009 The former General Manager of the Doula Ports Authority and three others have been sentenced to life in prison.
The verdict came at about 8:30 PM yesterday 11th of June 2009 at the Douala Appeals Court. The court also confirmed the 15 year sentence given to the former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Port Authority, Edouard Nathanael Etonde Ekotto while the former Deputy General Manager, Simon Pierre Ewondo Noah who was earlier sentenced to ten years in prison shall now serve fifteen years.
Siyam Siewe was appealing a 30 year prison sentence handed down by the Wouri Court of First Instance on 13th of December 2007.
Judgment was overturned for nine of the thirteen accused during the said trial; eight received very severe sentences but for Teguel Maurice, an army officer who was sentenced to one year in jail though absent from the court proceedings yesterday.
This second verdict concerning the State of Cameroon and Ports Authority against Alphonse Siyam Siewe former General Manager was read out in a tense atmosphere.
To ensure order in case of an eventuality, about 150 gendarmes and police officers were put on duty.
Some members of the Bar Council were outraged at the sentencing of Etienne Abessolo, a lawyer amongst the accused. This is the final verdict;
1. Alphonse Siyam Siewe; life in prison
2. Assana Mba’a Thomson; life in prison
3. Kandem Bathelemy; life in prison
4. Siewe Nintcheu; 25 years
5. Etienne Abessolo; 15 years
6. Edouard Nathanael Etonde Ekotto; 15 years
7. Simon Pierre Ewodo Noah; 15 years
8. Babila Tita; 15 years
9. Martin Zibi; 15 years
10. Cheukam Marie epouse Tchatcho; 15 years
11. Faustin Dingana; 15 years
12. Wensitcheu Nincheu; 15 years
13. Teguel Maurice; 1 year
Apart from the time in jail, they have been ordered to pay 75 378 308 010 francs in damages.
Alphonse Siyam Siewe who is former General Manager of the Ports Authorities has also been Minister of Water and Energy.
Pamela Bidjocka, Editor
"Come we stay Marriages II"
Thank you for you compliments. Yes I have found favour and consider my self very blessed. My spouse is indeed a tremendous blessing from the Lord and we are more in love today than we were back than. I will not exchange her for another woman. I have found my better half and to God be the glory. All the things we gave up have come back a hundred fold. If are given a chance to do it again we will not change anything. We did not even make invitations. All those who showed up came through word of mouth .
In high school I prayed that the Lord will bless me with a spouse who will love me just as I am. The Lord answered my prayer when, I met my beloved wife at the end of year one at the University of Buea and she accepted to get marry to me. It was a step of faith on her path, because I was not economically viable and there was nothing in the horizon to look forward to. I actually told her that, I do not know how things were going to work out, but all I know is that Lord is taking care and it will be well. We decided not to borrow a dime for the wedding, when the time came for us to get marry. Things worked out for us and we started debt free and have strive to remain like that.
Marriage has been given a bad name because many people get marry and their businesses collapse. Some get into a lot of debt that even threatens the marriage. That is why there is a popular saying in Cameroon that “Marriage ties people down and slows them”. This statement reflects the reality of many couples, for they go through a lot to get marry. Instead of parents helping their children to get marry, many place a heavy burden on them, especially the sisters. Each child is the same and there is no reason to expect the female child to bring in money when they are ready to get marry. There are many justifications that are given to support this. Most people say that if you as a man can not afford to pay and organize a good wedding then you are not ready to get marry. There is some truth to this statement, but economic well being should not be the only determining factor.
I heard evangelist Ben singing that the spirit of late marriage should be broken. We have some action to apply to that prayer. Late marriage in some cases is attributed to couples waiting to make sure that they have enough money to get marry. They are also waiting for that furnish house, good job and all the other good stuff. Please we are a people of faith and have to walk by faith even in the area of marriage.
I am writing from having been married for 9 years. God is faithful and will always provide. We had our first son as students and two other children as students and they lord has always been there for us. I remember many people telling me not to bring my young wife and son to the US because I was a student and going through financial difficulties. I told them that God’s will is for married couples to live together. Therefore the economic situation can not over ride God’s will. I went ahead and brought them and the rest is history.
What can we do to address the issue of “come we stay” and late marriages etc? Education is the first step and each and every one of us should be an educator. We need to question the statuesque and make sure society does not place undue burdens on us and our love ones. The lord has blessed us with three girls and we have already told our families that we will not be asking for dowry when our girls will be getting marry. If there is anything we can do to honour our parents, aunts, cousins and uncles, we will do it now and not wait when our girls will be getting marry.
As I said, some of us have a lot of resources and nothing should prevent them from organizing big weddings. If you can afford the pomp and the show go for it. If you can not, do not borrow to please people and later suffer in your home. The quality of your marriage is not dependent on the size of your wedding. Every successful marriage takes time, commitment, dedication, trust, faith, hope, love effort, dying to self and a lot of hard work. The wedding ceremonies themselves are just a one time thing and it is very easy to put up a show. Reality sets in after a few days and as the years go bye if the qualities mentioned above are not present, the marriage will stink. At times I laugh at how easy it is to put up a show. How many of us who are married still put food into the mouths of our spouse as we did with the wedding cake?
For those who are single. May be you are still unmarried because your priorities are not right. The Bible says when we seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness all the other things will be added. Your first prayer for a mate should be that the lord should pair you with somebody that will be a partner for the advancement of God’s kingdom. There is nothing wrong to pray for a job, well furnished house etc. My only concern is that you should not allow the lack of these things to prevent you from taking a step of faith and getting married. Long courtships are hazardous and should be avoided at all cost. You are either married or you are not. No matter how long you stay with somebody, you will never truly know them until you make that commitment and dedication to love cherish them for the rest of your life.
In high school I prayed that the Lord will bless me with a spouse who will love me just as I am. The Lord answered my prayer when, I met my beloved wife at the end of year one at the University of Buea and she accepted to get marry to me. It was a step of faith on her path, because I was not economically viable and there was nothing in the horizon to look forward to. I actually told her that, I do not know how things were going to work out, but all I know is that Lord is taking care and it will be well. We decided not to borrow a dime for the wedding, when the time came for us to get marry. Things worked out for us and we started debt free and have strive to remain like that.
Marriage has been given a bad name because many people get marry and their businesses collapse. Some get into a lot of debt that even threatens the marriage. That is why there is a popular saying in Cameroon that “Marriage ties people down and slows them”. This statement reflects the reality of many couples, for they go through a lot to get marry. Instead of parents helping their children to get marry, many place a heavy burden on them, especially the sisters. Each child is the same and there is no reason to expect the female child to bring in money when they are ready to get marry. There are many justifications that are given to support this. Most people say that if you as a man can not afford to pay and organize a good wedding then you are not ready to get marry. There is some truth to this statement, but economic well being should not be the only determining factor.
I heard evangelist Ben singing that the spirit of late marriage should be broken. We have some action to apply to that prayer. Late marriage in some cases is attributed to couples waiting to make sure that they have enough money to get marry. They are also waiting for that furnish house, good job and all the other good stuff. Please we are a people of faith and have to walk by faith even in the area of marriage.
I am writing from having been married for 9 years. God is faithful and will always provide. We had our first son as students and two other children as students and they lord has always been there for us. I remember many people telling me not to bring my young wife and son to the US because I was a student and going through financial difficulties. I told them that God’s will is for married couples to live together. Therefore the economic situation can not over ride God’s will. I went ahead and brought them and the rest is history.
What can we do to address the issue of “come we stay” and late marriages etc? Education is the first step and each and every one of us should be an educator. We need to question the statuesque and make sure society does not place undue burdens on us and our love ones. The lord has blessed us with three girls and we have already told our families that we will not be asking for dowry when our girls will be getting marry. If there is anything we can do to honour our parents, aunts, cousins and uncles, we will do it now and not wait when our girls will be getting marry.
As I said, some of us have a lot of resources and nothing should prevent them from organizing big weddings. If you can afford the pomp and the show go for it. If you can not, do not borrow to please people and later suffer in your home. The quality of your marriage is not dependent on the size of your wedding. Every successful marriage takes time, commitment, dedication, trust, faith, hope, love effort, dying to self and a lot of hard work. The wedding ceremonies themselves are just a one time thing and it is very easy to put up a show. Reality sets in after a few days and as the years go bye if the qualities mentioned above are not present, the marriage will stink. At times I laugh at how easy it is to put up a show. How many of us who are married still put food into the mouths of our spouse as we did with the wedding cake?
For those who are single. May be you are still unmarried because your priorities are not right. The Bible says when we seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness all the other things will be added. Your first prayer for a mate should be that the lord should pair you with somebody that will be a partner for the advancement of God’s kingdom. There is nothing wrong to pray for a job, well furnished house etc. My only concern is that you should not allow the lack of these things to prevent you from taking a step of faith and getting married. Long courtships are hazardous and should be avoided at all cost. You are either married or you are not. No matter how long you stay with somebody, you will never truly know them until you make that commitment and dedication to love cherish them for the rest of your life.
"Come we stay Marriages "
"Come we stay" is here to stay until the necessary changes are made to the marriage institution. I will write about African marriages especially Cameroonian ones. As Mike said, many people are getting married for the wrong reasons. The wrong questions are asked by would be couples. Wrong emphasis are placed on material well being at the expense of whole heart commitment and dedication that is needed for a successful marriage.
Many couples resort to “come we stay” in most cases because of economic reasons. They feel they do not have what it takes to organize a grandiose wedding. Their reasoning being that marriage is a one in a lifetime something and deserves the best. Some even feel that the quality of the wedding will determine the success of the marriage. Some families put a lot of pressure on the couple to organize a marriage in a certain way, but are not willing to pay for what they strongly desire. The motivating factor behind all this pressure is comparison and the desire to measure up to past weddings of other family members, friends etc.
Many of our traditions are not helping the situation at all. What is the purpose of the dowry? Why do we still have to pay it? Why do we have to celebrate marriage three different times? Why do we keep on adding and not removing? It is not easy for many young Cameroonians when they think about marriage. First you have to pay a heavy dowry and organize a traditional wedding. Secondly, you organize and court wedding and lastly a church wedding. Yes the church wedding must be big and well attended. You must wear a western wedding gown, suits, drive that big car, braids maids etc. If you do not do this you are out of fashion and people will laugh at you. Who set all these rules and why must we follow them? No doubt when many people look at the long and difficult road ahead, they prefer the road of less resistant. Which in this case is "come we stay". I think those that are laying a lot of emphasis on material well being are missing a very important point. People will have affection for each other no matter their economic status. Instead of putting road blocks, we should remove them and encourage people who desire to live the rest of their lives together do it. For “come we stay” does not benefit both parties. It is very important for two people who love each other to get marry before living together as husband and wife. Emphasis should not be on the nature of the ceremony, but on the purpose.
For those in come with stay relationships, you do not need to have a lot of money to officiate your relationship. Forget about other people's expectations and cut your coat according to your material and not even according to your size.
I got married as a student in Cameroon and today I am glad we did not get into debt to get marry. We are a happy and successful couple despite the fact that our wedding was not up to the "standard". There is more to marriage then all the pomp of the wedding itself. For it is written, “he who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord. It does not say he who is having a lot of stuff, or he who can organize a big wedding feast etc. It says he who finds.
For those who can afford, big lavish weddings do it for you have the resources. For those who can not afford, do not borrow even a dime to organize a wedding. If you borrow to feed people you are not being wise.
If you have any questions address them to me.
Many couples resort to “come we stay” in most cases because of economic reasons. They feel they do not have what it takes to organize a grandiose wedding. Their reasoning being that marriage is a one in a lifetime something and deserves the best. Some even feel that the quality of the wedding will determine the success of the marriage. Some families put a lot of pressure on the couple to organize a marriage in a certain way, but are not willing to pay for what they strongly desire. The motivating factor behind all this pressure is comparison and the desire to measure up to past weddings of other family members, friends etc.
Many of our traditions are not helping the situation at all. What is the purpose of the dowry? Why do we still have to pay it? Why do we have to celebrate marriage three different times? Why do we keep on adding and not removing? It is not easy for many young Cameroonians when they think about marriage. First you have to pay a heavy dowry and organize a traditional wedding. Secondly, you organize and court wedding and lastly a church wedding. Yes the church wedding must be big and well attended. You must wear a western wedding gown, suits, drive that big car, braids maids etc. If you do not do this you are out of fashion and people will laugh at you. Who set all these rules and why must we follow them? No doubt when many people look at the long and difficult road ahead, they prefer the road of less resistant. Which in this case is "come we stay". I think those that are laying a lot of emphasis on material well being are missing a very important point. People will have affection for each other no matter their economic status. Instead of putting road blocks, we should remove them and encourage people who desire to live the rest of their lives together do it. For “come we stay” does not benefit both parties. It is very important for two people who love each other to get marry before living together as husband and wife. Emphasis should not be on the nature of the ceremony, but on the purpose.
For those in come with stay relationships, you do not need to have a lot of money to officiate your relationship. Forget about other people's expectations and cut your coat according to your material and not even according to your size.
I got married as a student in Cameroon and today I am glad we did not get into debt to get marry. We are a happy and successful couple despite the fact that our wedding was not up to the "standard". There is more to marriage then all the pomp of the wedding itself. For it is written, “he who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord. It does not say he who is having a lot of stuff, or he who can organize a big wedding feast etc. It says he who finds.
For those who can afford, big lavish weddings do it for you have the resources. For those who can not afford, do not borrow even a dime to organize a wedding. If you borrow to feed people you are not being wise.
If you have any questions address them to me.
Monday, June 8, 2009
African "Chiefs" or Presidents?
Gabon is doomed! Yes, their chief is gone. He was the only one capable of keeping the country together. He was the only one who could grantee peace and stability. Please don't you see what her neighbours like the Congos, Chad, and Central African Republic have been through and are still going through? What are they going to do now? The son of the chief is going to take over. Without a Bongo on the throne there will be no Gabon. Did I say throne. Yes throne. It is a new wave that is sweeping over Africa. The presidents are chiefs and their children are expected to take over the throne when they die.
It is advanced democracy. Democracy made in African and specially tailored to meet our need for peace, stability, economic growth and harmony. Qualities that the continent of Africa enjoys more than all other parts of the world. What a lie. A very "FAT LIE" Advanced democracy has failed miserably and the notion that a strong man is all we need to keep the peace does not work. Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. How much have we given up in the name of peace and stability? Has this actually brought the peace and stability? I wonder. How can there be peace when most of the people live on less than a Dollar a day. When there is no portable water. When the roads are death traps. When hospitals and under staffed and stocked. When the strong man and his collaborators have to fly out of the country for treatment. Ironically these countries do not practice advance democracy, but are better places to die in
The need for a strong man has led many countries to amend their constitutions so that the "presidential term" can be extended indefinitely. Nobody is indispensable. The country will do without you when you are gone. Like it or not. Death comes to us all. God save us and God save Gabon
(CNN) -- Gabon's President Omar Bongo, Africa's longest-serving ruler, is not dead, the country's prime minister said Monday, contradicting reports from Gabonese and French media.Omar Bongo is Africa's longest-serving ruler.Omar Bongo is Africa's longest-serving ruler.Prime Minister Jean Eyeghe Ndong "deplored" French media reports that Bongo had died, saying he had met the president Monday morning.He vowed to lodge a protest with the French authorities about "repeated leaks in the French press."Bongo, 73, has been receiving treatment for intestinal cancer at the Quiron clinic in Barcelona, Spain, according to the Gabonews agency, which also reported Bongo's death earlier.Spain's Foreign Ministry confirmed to CNN that Bongo is alive.
He is in Quiron hospital in Barcelona, Spain for a "comprehensive health check," the prime minister said in a statement.
"This morning I visited the President, accompanied by the President of the National Assembly, the Foreign Minister, the head of the President's cabinet and senior members of the presidential family and after a meeting with the medical team we can confirm that the President is alive," the statement said.
Bongo took power in 1967, seven years after the West African country's independence from France.
He imposed one-party rule a year after succeeding the country's first president, who died in office. He allowed multiparty elections after a new constitution in 1991, but his party has retained control of the government since then.
http://edition. cnn.com/2009/ WORLD/africa/ 06/08/bongo. gabon/index. html
It is advanced democracy. Democracy made in African and specially tailored to meet our need for peace, stability, economic growth and harmony. Qualities that the continent of Africa enjoys more than all other parts of the world. What a lie. A very "FAT LIE" Advanced democracy has failed miserably and the notion that a strong man is all we need to keep the peace does not work. Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. How much have we given up in the name of peace and stability? Has this actually brought the peace and stability? I wonder. How can there be peace when most of the people live on less than a Dollar a day. When there is no portable water. When the roads are death traps. When hospitals and under staffed and stocked. When the strong man and his collaborators have to fly out of the country for treatment. Ironically these countries do not practice advance democracy, but are better places to die in
The need for a strong man has led many countries to amend their constitutions so that the "presidential term" can be extended indefinitely. Nobody is indispensable. The country will do without you when you are gone. Like it or not. Death comes to us all. God save us and God save Gabon
(CNN) -- Gabon's President Omar Bongo, Africa's longest-serving ruler, is not dead, the country's prime minister said Monday, contradicting reports from Gabonese and French media.Omar Bongo is Africa's longest-serving ruler.Omar Bongo is Africa's longest-serving ruler.Prime Minister Jean Eyeghe Ndong "deplored" French media reports that Bongo had died, saying he had met the president Monday morning.He vowed to lodge a protest with the French authorities about "repeated leaks in the French press."Bongo, 73, has been receiving treatment for intestinal cancer at the Quiron clinic in Barcelona, Spain, according to the Gabonews agency, which also reported Bongo's death earlier.Spain's Foreign Ministry confirmed to CNN that Bongo is alive.
He is in Quiron hospital in Barcelona, Spain for a "comprehensive health check," the prime minister said in a statement.
"This morning I visited the President, accompanied by the President of the National Assembly, the Foreign Minister, the head of the President's cabinet and senior members of the presidential family and after a meeting with the medical team we can confirm that the President is alive," the statement said.
Bongo took power in 1967, seven years after the West African country's independence from France.
He imposed one-party rule a year after succeeding the country's first president, who died in office. He allowed multiparty elections after a new constitution in 1991, but his party has retained control of the government since then.
http://edition. cnn.com/2009/ WORLD/africa/ 06/08/bongo. gabon/index. html
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Cameroonian Chief Diplomat Caught In Fraud Web
Cameroonian Chief Diplomat Caught In Fraud Web
Friday, May 29, 2009
By Kini Nsom
The Examining Mfoundi High Court Magistrate has urged the Presidency of the
Republic to lift the immunity of the Cameroonian High Commissioner to the
Republic of South Africa, HE Adrien Kouambo, so that he can answer charges
on alleged embezzlement.
The Magistrate, Justice Pierre Mpondo Osée, reportedly made the call
recently as he began preliminary inquiries into an FCFA 50 million embezzlement
scandal at the Cameroon High Commission in South Africa.
He is said to have recently written to the Presidency through the Minister
of External Relations.
Meanwhile, one George Mbantio, a hitherto Cameroonian businessman in
Durban, South Africa, who is said to be at the centre of the alleged
embezzlement deal, was arrested and sentenced to pre-trial detention at the Kondengui
Central Prison since May 4.
While narrating his ordeal to The Post, Mbantio said, when Kouambo was
appointed the Cameroonian High Commissioner, he met him and promised to do
business with him.
He said he called him later and gave him a contract to renovate the
residence of the High Commissioner at Water Kloof in Pretoria.
Mbantio said the High Commissioner gave the contract to him and told him to
backdate the documents to December 20, 2008, even though it was in January
2009, so that the bills could be easily paid. The businessman said when he
did that, the High Commissioner told him to take the bill to the
accountant in the High Commissioner, Francis Famfan. He narrated that the accountant
told him, he could not pay the FCFA 50 million and ordered him to do
another quotation worth FCFA 45 million rather.
He said the accountant issued a cheque for him even though he had not yet
done the job. Going by him, Kouambo came to Durban shortly after he put the
money to his account and ordered him to issue cheques and withdraw the
money and give him. He continued that, "When I told him that I had deposited
the cheque in my account, he said, I will have to give him my company cheque
and that if I do not give him, I will know that I am playing with people
who are used to making people disappear".
Mbantio said he got so frightened that he went back to his house and issued
two cheques. One for January 21, 2009 and the other for January 28, 2009
and did not write Kouambo's name as bearer of the cheques as earlier
instructed. "I told Kouambo," the man narrated, "that he should only deposit the
cheque dated January 28, 2009 and not the one dated January 21, 2009. I knew
these cheques were not going to go through since I used a wrong signature
intentionally just to know why he was taking away the job from me."
He claimed that Kouambo flouted his advice and deposited the cheque he told
him not to use and could not get the money. This time around, he said the
High Commissioner issued more threats until he issued cheques paying an
amount of money into his account in the South African currency, the rand,
which was equal to FCFA 15 million.
Mbantio narrated that even after paying this amount into his account; the
High Commissioner multiplied the threats on him until he handed over all the
FCFA 45 million meant for the contract. After paying this amount of money,
he said, Kouambo insisted that he should pay the balance because the
contract was FCFA 50 million.
He said Kouambo increased pressure and death threats on him until he
escaped from South Africa with his family and came back to Cameroon. Upon
learning that he came back to Cameroon, the High Commissioner wrote a complaint
to the Judicial Police in Yaounde accusing Mbantio of theft by false
pretence. After receiving the complaint, the police authorities spread words all
over security services in the country that Mbantio was a wanted man.
The police made little efforts to have their prey as Mbantio later gave up
himself to them.
Hear him: "I have decided to present myself to the authorities because I
know I am innocent. And that I and my family are very- very safe in my
beloved country Cameroon," says Mbantio.
When the Judicial Police finally had Mbantio in their drag net, they
charged him with complicity to the embezzlement of public funds.
The Economic Department of the Judicial Police is asking why the High
Commissioner ordered that money be paid to a contract that has not been
executed. But the High Commissioner' The Economic Department of the Judicial Police
is asking why the High Commissioner ordered that money be paid to a
contract that has not been executed. But the High Commissioner's complaints
accuses Mbantio of thef
It was on this premise that the examining Magistrate wrote to the
Presidency through the Minister of External Relations, calling for the lifting of
the immunity of the High Commissioner for police to interrogate him on the
matter. As Mbantio continues to languish in a pre-trial detention at
Kondengui, legal observers hold that the truth of the embezzlement case can only
come out if the High Commissioner submits himself to the judiciary for
interrogation.
Friday, May 29, 2009
By Kini Nsom
The Examining Mfoundi High Court Magistrate has urged the Presidency of the
Republic to lift the immunity of the Cameroonian High Commissioner to the
Republic of South Africa, HE Adrien Kouambo, so that he can answer charges
on alleged embezzlement.
The Magistrate, Justice Pierre Mpondo Osée, reportedly made the call
recently as he began preliminary inquiries into an FCFA 50 million embezzlement
scandal at the Cameroon High Commission in South Africa.
He is said to have recently written to the Presidency through the Minister
of External Relations.
Meanwhile, one George Mbantio, a hitherto Cameroonian businessman in
Durban, South Africa, who is said to be at the centre of the alleged
embezzlement deal, was arrested and sentenced to pre-trial detention at the Kondengui
Central Prison since May 4.
While narrating his ordeal to The Post, Mbantio said, when Kouambo was
appointed the Cameroonian High Commissioner, he met him and promised to do
business with him.
He said he called him later and gave him a contract to renovate the
residence of the High Commissioner at Water Kloof in Pretoria.
Mbantio said the High Commissioner gave the contract to him and told him to
backdate the documents to December 20, 2008, even though it was in January
2009, so that the bills could be easily paid. The businessman said when he
did that, the High Commissioner told him to take the bill to the
accountant in the High Commissioner, Francis Famfan. He narrated that the accountant
told him, he could not pay the FCFA 50 million and ordered him to do
another quotation worth FCFA 45 million rather.
He said the accountant issued a cheque for him even though he had not yet
done the job. Going by him, Kouambo came to Durban shortly after he put the
money to his account and ordered him to issue cheques and withdraw the
money and give him. He continued that, "When I told him that I had deposited
the cheque in my account, he said, I will have to give him my company cheque
and that if I do not give him, I will know that I am playing with people
who are used to making people disappear".
Mbantio said he got so frightened that he went back to his house and issued
two cheques. One for January 21, 2009 and the other for January 28, 2009
and did not write Kouambo's name as bearer of the cheques as earlier
instructed. "I told Kouambo," the man narrated, "that he should only deposit the
cheque dated January 28, 2009 and not the one dated January 21, 2009. I knew
these cheques were not going to go through since I used a wrong signature
intentionally just to know why he was taking away the job from me."
He claimed that Kouambo flouted his advice and deposited the cheque he told
him not to use and could not get the money. This time around, he said the
High Commissioner issued more threats until he issued cheques paying an
amount of money into his account in the South African currency, the rand,
which was equal to FCFA 15 million.
Mbantio narrated that even after paying this amount into his account; the
High Commissioner multiplied the threats on him until he handed over all the
FCFA 45 million meant for the contract. After paying this amount of money,
he said, Kouambo insisted that he should pay the balance because the
contract was FCFA 50 million.
He said Kouambo increased pressure and death threats on him until he
escaped from South Africa with his family and came back to Cameroon. Upon
learning that he came back to Cameroon, the High Commissioner wrote a complaint
to the Judicial Police in Yaounde accusing Mbantio of theft by false
pretence. After receiving the complaint, the police authorities spread words all
over security services in the country that Mbantio was a wanted man.
The police made little efforts to have their prey as Mbantio later gave up
himself to them.
Hear him: "I have decided to present myself to the authorities because I
know I am innocent. And that I and my family are very- very safe in my
beloved country Cameroon," says Mbantio.
When the Judicial Police finally had Mbantio in their drag net, they
charged him with complicity to the embezzlement of public funds.
The Economic Department of the Judicial Police is asking why the High
Commissioner ordered that money be paid to a contract that has not been
executed. But the High Commissioner' The Economic Department of the Judicial Police
is asking why the High Commissioner ordered that money be paid to a
contract that has not been executed. But the High Commissioner'
accuses Mbantio of thef
It was on this premise that the examining Magistrate wrote to the
Presidency through the Minister of External Relations, calling for the lifting of
the immunity of the High Commissioner for police to interrogate him on the
matter. As Mbantio continues to languish in a pre-trial detention at
Kondengui, legal observers hold that the truth of the embezzlement case can only
come out if the High Commissioner submits himself to the judiciary for
interrogation.
How Otto Pfister Duped Cameroonians
Personal reaction to the post below.
That is why all has to be done to get rid of the Chop a Chop canker worm that has eaten deep into our society and may soon eat our souls. IS is surprising? The minister pays the coach 15 million plus and the coach pays the minister 7 million a year. It is not strange. The coach " chops and the Minister chops" That is the Cameroonian reality. I travel abroad and arrange with my boss for my salary to be paid to my relatives etc. I give my boss kola at the end of the month. My boss chop a chop.
My justification is. The amount of money is small after all the "Big Man" up there is embezzling greater sums of money. Also the little I am taking is being used to buy medicine for my poor parents in the village. I do not squander it on weekend trips abroad as the big man does. I am holier you know. I am a modern Robin hood taking from the bad regime and giving to the poor.
What short sightedness? Give me a break. Do you have to take the law into your hands? Don't you know that it will result in anarchy? Yes confusion and a failed state. Go to http://www.chopachoplive.com and let your voice be heard.
By Innocent Mbunwe
There are indications that the resigned Indomitable Lions head coach, Otto Pfiister, 72, may have swindled the Cameroonian taxpayer of colossal amounts of cash. A secret report from the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education which The Post stumbled on, notes that, on May 7, 2009, Otto Pfister was paid through his German account, a lump sum of FCFA 123 million ($ 246,000) as advance salaries for six months.
Armed with such a swollen wallet, the big German decided to bang the door against the team he was purportedly coaching three weeks after the dough was safely deposited in the private account in his native Germany. The septuagenarian, it should be recalled, had been paid a six months advance salary on November 7, 2007, the day he was signing his contract. Pfister's salary was fixed at FCFA 15 million by Augustin Edjoa, Sports and Physical Education Minister.
Edjoa, added, another FCFA 5 million as salary for a physical trainer whom the German was to recruit, but until Wednesday, May 27, the day of his resignation the nation is yet to see the Physical instructor. Pfister, with decades of experience in the politics of African football, has walked away with hard earned money of tax paying Cameroonians. The coach's resignation took the nation unawares. It will be difficult for the nation to report him to the world football governing body, FIFA.
He is, by the way, not even recognised by FIFA because he signed his contract but with the Cameroonian Sports Ministry instead of the Cameroon Football Federation, FECAFOOT, the only body with which FIFA does business in Cameroon. It should be noted that FECAFOOT refused to endorse his controversial appointment and was never a signatory to his contract. Pfister has been coach for 18 months, during which period he enjoyed quite some juicy financial remuneration.
Sampler: His monthly salary stood at FCFA 15 million ($ 30.000), plus a monthly communication allowance of FCFA 500.000, ($1000). He also enjoyed monthly FCFA 5 million ($ 10.000) being money for a physical trainer.Pfister was paid FCFA 25 million ($50.000), as his 2008 Nations cup participation fee. He was entitled to
imitless amounts of cash each time he felt like travelling abroad to monitor players' performance in foreign leagues.
He stayed in Hotel Mont Febe for 18 months at state expense. Fernand Tanninche, the soccer agent who negotiated Pfister's appointment is yet to receive the 20 percent commission the coach agreed he would be paid. The matter is still pending in court.Tanninche told this Reporter: "All these financial transactions between Minister Edjoa and Pfister, amounts to mafia.
"Why is the Minister paying Pfister in advance in a poor country like Cameroon? I have never seen that. Pfister asked for FCFA 13 million as salary but the Minister increased it to FCFA 15 million, and even added FCFA 5 million for a physical trainer. "All these additions belong to the Minister. The Minister earns FCFA 7 million monthly from Pfister", Tanninche noted.
That is why all has to be done to get rid of the Chop a Chop canker worm that has eaten deep into our society and may soon eat our souls. IS is surprising? The minister pays the coach 15 million plus and the coach pays the minister 7 million a year. It is not strange. The coach " chops and the Minister chops" That is the Cameroonian reality. I travel abroad and arrange with my boss for my salary to be paid to my relatives etc. I give my boss kola at the end of the month. My boss chop a chop.
My justification is. The amount of money is small after all the "Big Man" up there is embezzling greater sums of money. Also the little I am taking is being used to buy medicine for my poor parents in the village. I do not squander it on weekend trips abroad as the big man does. I am holier you know. I am a modern Robin hood taking from the bad regime and giving to the poor.
What short sightedness? Give me a break. Do you have to take the law into your hands? Don't you know that it will result in anarchy? Yes confusion and a failed state. Go to http://www.chopachoplive.com and let your voice be heard.
By Innocent Mbunwe
There are indications that the resigned Indomitable Lions head coach, Otto Pfiister, 72, may have swindled the Cameroonian taxpayer of colossal amounts of cash. A secret report from the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education which The Post stumbled on, notes that, on May 7, 2009, Otto Pfister was paid through his German account, a lump sum of FCFA 123 million ($ 246,000) as advance salaries for six months.
Armed with such a swollen wallet, the big German decided to bang the door against the team he was purportedly coaching three weeks after the dough was safely deposited in the private account in his native Germany. The septuagenarian, it should be recalled, had been paid a six months advance salary on November 7, 2007, the day he was signing his contract. Pfister's salary was fixed at FCFA 15 million by Augustin Edjoa, Sports and Physical Education Minister.
Edjoa, added, another FCFA 5 million as salary for a physical trainer whom the German was to recruit, but until Wednesday, May 27, the day of his resignation the nation is yet to see the Physical instructor. Pfister, with decades of experience in the politics of African football, has walked away with hard earned money of tax paying Cameroonians. The coach's resignation took the nation unawares. It will be difficult for the nation to report him to the world football governing body, FIFA.
He is, by the way, not even recognised by FIFA because he signed his contract but with the Cameroonian Sports Ministry instead of the Cameroon Football Federation, FECAFOOT, the only body with which FIFA does business in Cameroon. It should be noted that FECAFOOT refused to endorse his controversial appointment and was never a signatory to his contract. Pfister has been coach for 18 months, during which period he enjoyed quite some juicy financial remuneration.
Sampler: His monthly salary stood at FCFA 15 million ($ 30.000), plus a monthly communication allowance of FCFA 500.000, ($1000). He also enjoyed monthly FCFA 5 million ($ 10.000) being money for a physical trainer.Pfister was paid FCFA 25 million ($50.000), as his 2008 Nations cup participation fee. He was entitled to
imitless amounts of cash each time he felt like travelling abroad to monitor players' performance in foreign leagues.
He stayed in Hotel Mont Febe for 18 months at state expense. Fernand Tanninche, the soccer agent who negotiated Pfister's appointment is yet to receive the 20 percent commission the coach agreed he would be paid. The matter is still pending in court.Tanninche told this Reporter: "All these financial transactions between Minister Edjoa and Pfister, amounts to mafia.
"Why is the Minister paying Pfister in advance in a poor country like Cameroon? I have never seen that. Pfister asked for FCFA 13 million as salary but the Minister increased it to FCFA 15 million, and even added FCFA 5 million for a physical trainer. "All these additions belong to the Minister. The Minister earns FCFA 7 million monthly from Pfister", Tanninche noted.
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