Like the pains that precede childbirth, our country and communities are experiencing the birth pains of a new Cameroon nation. We envision a nation with a common identity, shared values, and faith in our future and destiny. For 8 years, 42 years, or since 1961, we’ve been defining the kind of society we want. We desire a society nested in our cultural values, ethics, faith in God, merit, hard work, and virtues that make for a prosperous people.

The Challenges Facing Our Society

Unfortunately, our journey has been marred by:

1. Undermining of Democratic Values and Systems: Our democratic institutions have been weakened, and the rule of law has been compromised.
2. Privatization and Tribalization of State Institutions: State institutions have been hijacked by special interest groups, leading to inequality and marginalization.
3. Rampant Corruption: Corruption has become endemic, perpetuating poverty and inequality.
4. Degrading Infrastructure: Our infrastructure has deteriorated, hindering economic growth and development.
5. Stagnant Economy: Our economy has remained stagnant, failing to provide opportunities for citizens.

The Way Forward: A Meritocratic Society

To overcome these challenges, we propose a meritocratic society built on shared values and democratic principles. This requires addressing four core points:

I. Rebuilding State Institutions and Capacity

1. Revisit and strengthen democratic institutions to ensure accountability and transparency.
2. Ensure regular free and fair elections to guarantee citizens’ participation.
3. Adopt a devolved parliamentary system to promote regional autonomy and representation.
4. Establish an independent judiciary and legislature to check executive power.

II. Professionalizing the Public Sector and Unleashing the Private Sector

1. Root out corruption through robust anti-corruption measures.
2. Detribalize the public service to promote inclusivity and meritocracy.
3. Ensure fair distribution of resources and opportunities to bridge the gap between regions.
4. Create an enabling environment for private enterprise to thrive.

III. Pursuing Economic Reforms and Industrialization

1. Transform the economy through diversification and innovation.
2. Promote industrialization to create jobs and stimulate growth.
3. Develop reliable infrastructure (roads, rail, air, and sea transport) to facilitate trade.
4. Ensure fair taxation and efficient administration.

IV. Pursuing Political and Governance Reforms

1. Correct societal distortions through inclusive policies.
2. Ensure justice, fairness, and equitable distribution of resources.
3. Depoliticize and professionalize the army, police, and security cluster.
4. Empower universities and higher educational institutions to train a competitive workforce.

Conclusion

Building a meritocratic society requires collective effort and agreement on shared values. We must trust in our inherent goodness and shared identity to create a prosperous nation. PRAP adopts and promotes this vision, seeking to:

1. Silence the guns and end conflict.
2. Release political prisoners and promote national reconciliation.
3. Address root causes of conflict and promote inclusive governance.

The Path Ahead

The road ahead promises not to be easy, but we must find strength to embark on this journey. We can build a prosperous nation that is meritocratic, innovative, and globally competitive. We just need to agree upon the values and norms upon which such a society needs to be based and acknowledge that the current status quo is unsustainable.

Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on building a meritocratic society in Cameroon and the Former Southern British Cameroons? Share your ideas and insights!