Though memories of the Olembe stadium incident linger in some minds, the show must go on and so the CPDM is continuing its mobilization bid as the football tournament reaches the semi-finals stage.
The Secretary General of the Central Committee, Jean Nkuété in a communiqué signed last week lamented over the horrible stampede that claimed the lives of some young Cameroonians on January 24. While extending the condolences of the CPDM family to those who lost loved ones in the incident and wishing a quick recovery to the injured, the Party’s scribe also congratulated the Lions for their brilliant performance this far in the tournament. He encouraged the Cameroon team to continue putting in their best till the curtains drop on February 6, 2022. To avoid a repeat of the Olembe incident, investigations were opened and the results of the findings now explain measures taken by government. Measures which according to Jean Nkuété are laudable and should go a long way to assure the security and safety of Cameroonians who want to see a successful end to the African football rendezvous.
In line with President Paul Biya’s call for football-loving Cameroonians to massively partake in the jamboree, thousands of Cameroonians have been marking their presence in stadia across the country to cheer players of various teams to victory. The CPDM has played a great role in this through several schemes put in place by hierarchy and political elite of some localities. Not only have militants been provided with free tickets and transportation to stadia, they have also enjoyed government’s decision to close offices early to enable spectators watch the matches. CPDM militants have also championed the setting up of fan zones even in localities where the AFCON games are not played. These places have served as melting pots of various cultures and people thereby fostering the oneness of the people, at a time when Cameroon is in the spotlight.
In the countdown to the finals, heads of CPDM Permanent Delegations as well as Section presidents still have the daunting task of mobilising even more Cameroonians. No doubt Jean Nkuété called on militants and sympathizers of the great party as well as football fans to continue mobilizing peers towards this event, taking into account discipline, rigour and the respect of measures prescribed by CAF and FIFA. More than ever before, militants and by extension Cameroonians need to watch out for uncivil actions that could endanger the lives of fellow citizens and even visitors.
Claudette CHIN
