The call for ghost town by separatists to frustrate the 56th national youth day celebration in Kumba fell on deaf ears as hundreds of youths defied the threats and fully participated.
The city of Kumba has been noted in the entire South West Region for respecting ghost towns to the letter. Self-proclaimed amba generals in their dispersed ranks have on several occasions ordered lockdowns across the region. In most cases, other towns usually boycotted such orders, with only Kumba paying complete allegiance.
The 56th edition of the national youth day proved the contrary for the population of Kumba. Not only was the call for lockdown boycotted, the youths of the city and Meme Division in general came out in their numbers to say enough is enough. The CPDM youths did not only turnout in their numbers, but the party T-shirts printed to be used ran out of supplies, due to the mammoth crowd that turned out.
It was the first of its kind event in Kumba. Militants who for long have shun media interviews were noticed scrambling to be heard and seen. The Senior Divisional Officer for Meme Chamberlain Ntou’Ou Ndong, the City mayor of Kumba, Gregory Mewanu, the mayors of Kumba I, II and III, as well as CPDM section presidents, pooled resources to give the day the dignity it deserved. The Senior Divisional Officer for Meme, saluted the bravery of the youths and urged those still carrying arms to drop them and embrace peace.
On his part, the city mayor of Kumba, described the turnout as encouraging and thanked the youths for braving the odds. Mayor Moses Eseme, challenged the youths to be united and strong, so as to completely defeat the pockets of separatists still loitering in some neighbourhoods.
Primary, secondary, High schools and professional institutions showcased a brilliant march pass, with the Higher Technical Teacher Training College, HTTTC, Kumba emerging top in the March pass. As part of the celebration, medals of national honours were awarded to some meritorious elites.
Jude EFUTERCHA
