Traditional Authority and National Leadership: The Declaration of Cameroon’s Traditional Rulers in 2025
The statutory meeting of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Cameroon, held on January 27, 2025, at the Yaoundé Conference Centre, marked a significant moment in the intersection of traditional leadership and modern governance in Cameroon. Convened under the auspices of the Ministry of Territorial Administration, the meeting addressed two pivotal agenda items:
- The reorganization of the Council’s permanent bureau following the passing of its late President, Secretary of State Alim Hayatou, who also served as the Lamido of Garoua.
- A declaration on the prevailing political climate in Cameroon, particularly in light of the upcoming presidential election. Recognition of Traditional Leadership in Governance
The Council used the occasion to reflect on the advancements made under the leadership of President Paul Biya, specifically the integration of traditional rulers into the administrative and political frameworks of the Republic. The monthly allowances for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class traditional rulers, coupled with their participation in regional councils and other state institutions, underscore the growing importance accorded to traditional governance within the nation’s broader political structure.
The decision to allocate the post of Vice-President in regional councils to traditional rulers further demonstrates a deliberate effort to blend Cameroon’s historical governance structures with its modern administrative systems. This duality of leadership—modern and traditional—symbolizes a unique approach to addressing the complexities of governance in a nation as diverse as Cameroon.
Political Support and the Call for Stability
In their declaration, the traditional rulers expressed unequivocal support for the candidacy of President Paul Biya in the forthcoming presidential election. They cited his experience, patriotism, and vision as essential qualities for navigating the country through an increasingly unpredictable global landscape. The rulers emphasized that Cameroon, as a nation with multifaceted challenges, requires a steady and experienced hand to maintain unity and promote development.
The rulers also pledged to uphold the principles of peace and stability during the electoral process, reaffirming their role as custodians of tradition and auxiliaries of the administration. This pledge aligns with their constitutional role of fostering community cohesion and supporting national governance structures.
The Role of Traditional Rulers in Cameroon’s Democracy
This meeting highlighted the evolving role of traditional rulers in Cameroon’s democracy. By taking a firm stand on national issues, traditional rulers are asserting themselves not just as cultural and community leaders but also as key stakeholders in the country’s political discourse. Their endorsement of the President’s candidacy is indicative of their commitment to ensuring continuity and stability, values deeply rooted in their traditional mandate.
Challenges and Implications
While the declaration underscores the alignment between traditional authority and the state, it also raises critical questions about the independence of traditional rulers in political matters. Their explicit support for an incumbent candidate could be viewed as partisan, potentially complicating their role as impartial custodians of community welfare. Moreover, the integration of traditional governance into modern political structures necessitates a delicate balance to avoid undermining the cultural and symbolic authority they represent.
Conclusion
The declaration of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Cameroon is a testament to the evolving interplay between tradition and modernity in governance. It reflects the significant strides made in recognizing traditional institutions while highlighting their increasing involvement in political processes. As Cameroon moves toward its presidential election, the role of traditional rulers in fostering peace and supporting national unity will remain pivotal. However, maintaining their impartiality and preserving their cultural essence amidst political endorsements will be critical for their long-term relevance and effectiveness.
By K.K. Bonteh
Writer, Poet, Dramatist, Educator, and Social Commentator
