A Cameroonian social media activist and government critic who disappeared last month has been located in a security cell of the military court in Yaoundé, Cameroon’s capital, with signs of torture, Human Rights Watch said Tuesday.

His lawyers believe the activist, known as Steve Akam, was extrajudicially returned to Cameroon from Gabon, where he had been living for the past decade. They gained access to him in custody in Yaoundé and found him partially paralysed with severe visual impairments, the international rights group said.

Akam, an outspoken critic of President Paul Biya’s administration, was last seen in a video circulated online that showed him handcuffed and surrounded by Cameroonian police near the border with Gabon.

He is better known by his social media profile Ramon Cotta on TikTok, which has over 30,000 followers. In a recent video, he accuses Biya of pursuing a war in Cameroon’s anglophone regions in order to remain in power.

Ilaria Allegrozzi, senior Sahel researcher at Human Rights Watch, said Akam “may already have lost his sight and ability to walk properly as a result of torture, so prompt action is immediately needed”.

She called on Cameroon to provide medical treatment and investigate the signs of torture. Cameroon’s government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Source: Reuters

Finance Minister, Louis Paul Motaze, announced on August 23 a further extension for non-professional taxpayers’ annual personal income tax (IRPP) filing deadline. Initially set for June 30, 2024, and first extended to September 1, the deadline is now December 1, 2024. This extension aims to give taxpayers more time to fulfill their tax obligations.

Motaze explained that the high volume of recent tax declarations drove the decision. He expressed satisfaction with the increasing number of compliant taxpayers. However, the minister warned that failing to meet the new deadline will result in penalties as outlined in the Tax Procedures Code.

To assist taxpayers, the Ministry of Finance has established support teams at local tax offices and the General Directorate of Taxes. Online assistance is also available through a toll-free hotline (8200), an online help platform on the General Directorate of Taxes website, and a messaging service (+237 691 881 881) for Cameroonians abroad.

Since 2021, non-professional taxpayers receiving income such as salaries, pensions, annuities, dividends, and rental income have been required to submit an annual income declaration by June 30 each year. This requirement, introduced by the 2021 Finance Law signed by President Paul Biya on December 17, 2020, aims to broaden the tax base and ensure greater transparency in income reporting.

Source: Business in Cameroon

Chief Mrs Stella Arhewoh President of MOHWA in the Federal Republic of Nigeria is the latest prominent Manyu personality to jump ship to NYENE MAWN.

In a soul-searching speech delivered today in Belgium, Stella Arhewoh née Ntui (to use her three names) said the once popular MOHWA is today a shadow of its former self.

The Cameroonian diplomat also pointed out that Manyu Division is a constituency more sinned against than sinning.

Chief Stella Arhewoh furthered that she made the trip from Abuja, Nigeria to Brussels because NYENE MAWN is clearly the organization most Manyu women around the world are looking up to as they consider that MOHWA is a ship wrecked by greed, arrogance and intimidation. Below is her address delivered today at the MANYU WOMEN’S INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION’s AGM.  

Dear Members and Delegates,

It is a great pleasure for me to address this August body. The birth of NYENE MAWN is like the birth of a new born baby which is always an occasion for joy and celebration.

While we celebrate the birth of our novel association, we should always bear in mind that the Manyu girl child and development must always be at the center of our actions and decisions.

The people of Manyu look forward to an organization that will bring development to the division and dignity to the girl child. A purpose-driven people will always focus on making the future better than the present and NYENE MAWN is driven by that passion to reshape the future in Manyu Division.

We must also remember the circumstances which have led to the creation of NYENE MAWN. Our organization is being birthed following the chaos that has made us stronger and more determined. We must ensure that the problems which caused us to depart from MOHWA do not become our story.

We must make tolerance our hallmark. We must make democratic deliberation a key component of our processes and procedures. We must make that difference which will endear us to the minds of our people. Strong democratic management will enable us to build a strong, resilient and trusted organization. By adhering to this principle, we will attract many members.

Also, we must always bear in mind that we will not always be on the same page when issues pop up, but how we handle those differences will make or mar us. Disagreement is as old as man, but differences of opinion only test our ability to be solution-driven and innovative.  It should however be pointed out that when we disagree, we must be agreeable. We are many and the rules will sometimes not favor all of us, but that will not imply that we do not have to find common ground. We must be committed to working together to build strong relations and we must be more committed to finding lasting solutions to our differences, that is, if and when those issues show up.

I trust we are all determined to make NYENE  MAWN successful. I can see the joy and determination on our faces. We have come far and near to socialize and meet each other, but we are, first and foremost, here to lay down that solid transformative foundation which will inspire hope in Manyu Division.

We must always know that we are all ambassadors of NYENE MAWN and how we carry ourselves in public will determine how the public sees us. Ours will not be an association of disrespect and insults. Ours should be an association of refined minds whose key goal is to help develop the Manyu girl child and help the Division with its development efforts.

Dear sisters, I would like to keep it short. As you know, brevity is the soul of wit. We should focus on actions and not noise. We should serve as examples for others to emulate. We should make Manyu proud again.

I wish you all the best in your deliberations. Let’s make Belgium 2024 a memorable event. Thanks for your time and enjoy this great moment.

Chief Mrs Stella Arhewoh née Ntui

This weekend in the Kingdom of Belgium, Manyu and its development issues are in the spotlight-this time around for all the right reasons. Dr Mrs Patience Abangma a committed actress in the Manyu development story last night announced the official creation of NYENE MAWN. Below is her full speech as recorded for us by our correspondent in Brussels.

Your Royal Majesty

Sessekous, Ekandims and Manyangaraws,

Nyene Mawn queens,

Distinguished guests

I feel honoured by your presence here to support the birth of  ‘Nyene Mawn’. And whilst I do not wish to draw attention away from this incredibly monumental occasion, the circumstances surrounding how ‘Nyene Mawn’ has come to be does require me to spend a brief moment to once and for all debunk myths, misinformation and in some cases outright lies.  And whilst I am not here to castigate anyone, on the occasion of the birth of this platform of women’s empowerment, solidarity and sisterhood please permit me to state some facts which will mean that we can move forward with the future in unity and joy. 

1.      Convention 2024: The convention of MOHWA Europe 2024 was initially scheduled to take place in Germany.  Issues arose as to the cost of the hall.  The matter was reported to Cameroon by Germany and when it was not able to be resolved, the committee went for plan B option which was to choose another country since our constitution had clearly specified that requirement of a convention every 2 years.  Florence (SG) was charged with the responsibility of liaising with Prof Ojongkpot.  On her advice as articulated by the SG during a meeting, we conducted a voting with the overwhelming majority of the view that our convention should hold.  Below is a timeline of events:

(a)     17th February, SG sent our save the date flyer to Prof.

(b)     18th February: Prof responded:”thanks for sharing.  Well I would advise that you update our logo to move along with the different fabric logo. And then the background seems a little busy. My one cent”.

(c)     20th February: SG sent the updated flyer.  “ Good morning ma PG Global.  This is the final flyer for our convention.  We will be grateful to know those who will be coming”.

(d)     20th February:  Prof responded. “Ok dear! Let me commission the PRO to do it”.

2.      Process of Dissolution of the then MOHWA Europe: The process of dissolving MOHWA Europe by MOHWA Global was never done in consultation with MOHWA Europe Exco.  A global zoom meeting was scheduled by Cameroon in which the issue of the groups that complained was raised. Exco members were not allowed to speak.  It was then decided that there was going to be a Conflict Resolution Committee to look at the issues raised. Whilst we were waiting for the committer, it became apparent that Cameroon had spoken to those who complained and refused to take into consideration the rejoinder sent to them.  I was added to a call on 28th March 2024 to inform me of their verdict.  I want to reiterate that this is the only time I was called on this issue.  I was merely called to inform me of the decision taken. A dissolution letter dated 27th March 2024 was then sent to me the following day which I then forwarded to the exco.  A response dated 20th April 2024, signed by all the 11 presidents was sent to Cameroon.

3.      Cease and Desist letter:  A letter dated 26th July 2024, was sent from their lawyer in Ireland representing MOHWA Global to all the presidents of the then MOHWA Europe giving clear instructions that we stop using anything associated with MOHWA.  For peace to reign, I responded by assuring them that we will take steps to comply with their request including change of name, wrapper, and anthem and even bring down all material related to MOHWA online.  All the adverts in preparation for our convention were changed.   A week later, the lawyer again wrote proposing a change of name to Manyu Ladies International Society.  I responded on August 8th, 2024 rejecting any suggestion of replacing the word “women” with “ladies” and the word “association” with “society” as these are generic words which cannot be patented. I maintained that we remain the Manyu Women’s International Association (Nyene Mawn). In the likelihood of their lawyer pursuing Nyene Mawn for frivolous reasons, I might have to request for a refund of the money I paid for the patent of MOHWA UK.   I have proof of my receipt.

I want it to be made clear that ‘Nyene Mawn’ is a NEW ORGANISATION. It does not hold itself up as being a version of MOHWA. It is a new cultural organisation quite within its legal rights. Another entity has no legal basis to request a Cease and Desist of another when no breach NO BREACH has occurred. Our organisation does not share the same name, logo, motto, song, clothing or any other type of branding with MOHWA. There is no case to answer here and I hope that the legal adviser is indeed giving them sound legal advice rather than causing them to waste money.

4.      Misappropriation of funds: This to me is tantamount to slander. I am hoping that there will be evidence of the £3000 alleged to have been taken.  At no point had I approached the association to foot the bills for my travels even though I do that in the name of the association. I can say this with my full chest. The only time the exco decided to support was when we were going for the launching of MOHWA Nigeria.  They held a meeting in my absence and they all agreed that I have been spending my own money to represent the association and that they must do something this time.  I was reliably informed later that AG said “ mamie has already bought her ticket and she might not be interested in this support”. She however suggested that they could pay for the hotel which they did.

5.      Events during South Africa Launching: The media space now speaks for itself. The conduct of the PG was plain to see for all those in the room and was captured on Zoom and broadcast to an international audience. On this matter I will merely say 2 things:

(i)  MOHWA promotes itself as a platform for women to support each other. The display by their PG was far from that. Regardless of her perceived justification, an open forum of this kind cannot surely be the place where someone who is meant to be in a leadership role and is before her constituents demonstrates such lack of leadership and unity.

(ii)   I kept silent for a number of reasons and will never regret that decision. The number one reason being I am not only a child of Manyu, I am also the wife of a Paramount Ruler in Manyu who MOHWA knew would be attending the launching. I intentionally chose to demonstrate restraint under fire to protect the dignity and the sanctity of our cultural values, my husband, my children and myself. What came to mind on the day was Michelle Obama’s catch phrase “when they go low, we go high”.

In conclusion, what we have done is not change our name. We have created a new organisation based on inclusivity, respect, unity, love and support for each other as women. It is our right as women of Manyu to do so. And we do it proudly.  We are Nyene Mawn. Ready to embrace all our children. Forward ever, backward never. Let our problems of today be translated into our solutions for the future.  Let us all strive to build a strong institution as they will stand the test of time, not strong leadership as might cause the collapse of an institution if the next leader is not strong. We in Nyene Mawn should put the lyrics of our anthem in practice, foster love, stand for the truth, preach unity and forgiveness. We should refrain from recording and sending angry messages. Please make good use of the conflict resolution committee that has been put in place. Together, we can make a positive contribution to our society here in Europe and to our Manyu division.  It is said that “the journey of a thousand miles starts with one one”.

Distinguish guests; join us in this journey to help us move another step through your financial and emotional support.

Long live Nyene Mawn.

Cameroon’s fragile and crumbling president Paul Biya is back after 27 days of squandering taxpayers’ money in Europe.

Mr. Biya, who has been in power for 42 years and has nothing to show for his long stay in power was in Europe to watch the Olympics but after the games, he decided to stay in France, a country wherein leaders work to develop their country.

Though at the Olympics Mr. Biya was incapable of motivating Cameroon’s athletes who could not win even a medal.

Upon arrival, Mr. Biya was received by the country’s Prime Minister, Dion Ngute, whom many think is on his way out.

Mr. Ngute has been in office for over six years but has not been able to earn the president’s confidence. Mr. Biya has consistently despised Mr. Ngute and recent pictures seem to confirm this rumor.

Mr. Ngute, it is alleged will soon be replaced as many regime insiders hold that he has overstayed his welcome.

It is also alleged that Mr. Ngute will be replaced by someone at the Presidency or a candidate who is out of the country.

It is also alleged that Mr. Ngute is aware of the decision hanging over his head like the Sword of Damocles and that is why he could be seen in the picture bowing to Biya like Angels do to God.

But Mr. Ngute’s reverence may not convince Mr.Biya whom many accuse of having no respect for his own Prime Minister. The die seems to be cast for Mr. Ngute.

By Soter Tarh Agbaw-Ebai

A joint investigation by Cameroon’s Ministries of Finance, Defense, and General Delegation for National Security has uncovered widespread fraud involving fake birth certificates submitted by military and police personnel to claim child allowances.

Between 2010 and 2021, 12,846 fake birth certificates were declared for children of military personnel, while 4,300 retirees had at least one false declaration. The investigation was launched after the Ministry of Finance noticed a sharp increase in child allowance payments to retired military and police personnel.

The child benefit is granted based on the number of children over 16 years old (for military personnel) and over 20 years old (for police officers) that retirees claim to have raised. The Ministry of Finance explained that the “explosion” in allowance payments between 2010 and 2021 threatened the sustainability of the pension system.

The fraudulent claims led to the suspension of child benefit payments, causing discontent among beneficiaries. In response to complaints from retirees, the Ministry of Finance clarified the situation and implemented a system to regularize the claims.

Of the 110 cases received, 52 have been resolved, resulting in the restoration of benefit increases for August 2024 with retroactive payment for July, the Finance Ministry indicates.

Source: Sbbc

The Belgian capital is where NYENE MAWN, the new Manyu organization has chosen for its launch and all roads are actually leading to Brussels.

Despite threats by the MOHWA leadership to discipline MOHWA members who will be in Brussels for the event, many members of the erstwhile MOHWA Europe are on their way to Belgium.

Speaking to the Cameroon Concord News Group’s correspondent in Western Europe about the event, a member of MOHWA who has walked away from MOHWA Global said that the formation of NYENE MAWN was a welcome relief.

“I am happy that NYENE MAWN will finally see the light of day. As women, we just want to socialize and bring some development to Manyu Division but with MOHWA GLOBAL, the road ahead was bumpy and the waters were permanently murky. The rules were like shifting sands and the organization’s constitution was replaced with the President’s word. I was completely frustrated by such an approach. I hope NYENE MAWN will serve as an example to others,” the lady who elected anonymity said.

“We are in Belgium not just to launch our organization but also to demonstrate how united and effective we can be in organizing big events like this one. Our members have already begun arriving, especially those from Africa and we are really energized,” the lady pointed out.

“I know our launch is a big blow to MOHWA as many people have walked away from MOHWA GLOBAL, but we will do our best not to compete with anybody. We will reach out to other sister organizations when and if necessary, especially when Manyu development is concerned,” she stressed.

Asked about the threats of discipline hanging over MOHWA members like her who are attending the launch in Belgium like the Sword of Damocles, the lady simply said “why end a relationship that is bound to end? If we are already in Brussels, it is because we know what we want. The past is the past and we are focused on the future.”

The launch, which will take place over the weekend, will help the leaders of NYENE MAWN to refine their strategy with a view to solidifying unity within the organization.

By Soter Tarh Agbaw-Ebai

Group Chairman and Editor-in-chief

Cameroon Concord News Group

The Supreme Leader of the Bakweris in Buea His Royal Highness Dr. Robert Esuka Mbella Endeley was greeted by a mammoth crowd and a warm welcome during his first official visit to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Naliomo spoke to prominent Cameroonian elites and community leaders and announced his plan to build a multipurpose cultural centre in Buea the chief city in the South West region. The Buea monarch revealed that the centre will focus on culture, entrepreneurship and innovation, community and intellectual leadership.

His Royal Highness Dr. Robert Esuka Mbella Endeley toured the Midlands, visited Buckingham palace and the Cameroon embassy in London.

On his colourful arrival in the beautiful city of Leicester, the King of Buea was greeted by the welcoming beats of his people led by senior Bakweri notables including William Gobina, Andrew Mokake and Lady Fotabong.  

Olivia Ebangha Tambe president of the Manyu Women Association in London UK  said she was so proud, so happy and so honoured to meet Chief Endeley V. Olivia Ebangha Tambe furthered that Manyu Women in London were saying through her voice that they respect the king and were paying homage.

The Saturday 17 August Leicester visit witnessed the participation of top Cameroonian entrepreneurs.

His Royal Highness Dr. Robert Esuka Mbella Endeley also spoke in private to a group of leading figures including Prince Julian Ebai, Charles Mambo and the Cameroon High Commissioner HE Fotabong on a range of issues.

By Soter Tarh Agbaw-Ebai with files