Ethnic politics

I know constructive criticism is what we all strive for and freedom of speech is not an excuse for anybody to say whatever they want without considering the implication of whatever they say. That said, nobody should prevent the other from expressing their views, because they are unconformable with what is being said. If we are not allowed to express ourselves in our house, where else are we going to be free? If those we have elected as our leaders are not treating us well, what do we expect from those who do not know us?
The truth must be spoken in love at all times even though it will make people uncomfortable. I agree with both of you, that we prefer talking behind people’s backs and not confronting them when given the opportunity to do so. It is deeply entrenched in our culture and anybody that does not toe the line is considered abnormal. Our leaders and elders are always right and are above reproach. “Little children are to be seen and not to be heard”. If I was born before you, I am always right and you must listen to me and not speak up. No doubt we grew up hearing that the youths are leaders of tomorrow, but most of us still have to wait for another century for a chance to become leaders.
Mr. Agendia, I agree with you that we do not need a minister from Lebailem for the needs of our area to be met. We have lived with this lie for a very long time and I think the time has come for us to face it head long. We have seen how little ministers from other parts of the country have benefited the common man. At their best their immediate family and close friends are those that benefit.
Why is our country where it is? Part of the reason is the manipulation of the masses under the pretext of regional balance. This policy reinforces “tribalism” resulting in a false sense of ethnicity. As such people lose sight of the broader picture and are prevented from asking the right questions. Therefore elections are not centered around issues, but on ethnic affiliations. That is why it is not surprise to hear that an election as important as the plebiscite was reduced to “will you vote for Foncha a Bamenda man or for Endeley a Bakweri man?
We are all aware of what the out come of the plebiscite is. Although we are still being told all is well and that nobody should complain or speak up. After all the problem is from the “came no goes” we have to send back to where they belong. How long are we going to play this ethnic card? I hear there is a lot of jubilation on the streets of Bamenda, because a son of the soil has been appointed the prime minister. Give me a break. Is he the first or the last Bamenda prime minister? Many have come and gone and we know the North West still has a very long way to go. I drove by the house of one of their former prime minister, who tarred the road from the dusty main road to his house. What a shame.
We will only get what we desire and expect. Politics of ethnic balance has kept us where we are. The colonial masters played that card and our leaders have mastered it very well. It sounds well and has the appearance of being the best option, but it is a deadly smoke screen used by those in power to manipulate, control and dominate the masses. The good news is this deceit will not go on forever. The time has come and now is the time to speak against such a blatant lie that has enslaved our people. Do not vote for somebody because he or she is your “country man” vote for them because they have the interest of Cameroon at heart.