The People’s Rights Advocacy Platform (PRAP) strongly condemns the recent ban on traditional masquerade dances issued by divisional official Menyong Gilbert in Bui Division, North West Region. This restriction on cultural expressions, justified through baseless accusations and targeted intimidation, represents a gross violation of our people’s right to self-determination and cultural identity. The colonial tactics employed by the Cameroon government continue to target genuine and apolitical traditional rulers in an attempt to destabilize the cherished customs and heritage of our communities.
This divisive action is just one instance of many where the Cameroon government has sought to undermine the Nso Fondom and other cultural institutions. Recently, traditional leader Kinkoh Eric Dzekem of Kikaikelaki village has been accused, without evidence, of collaborating with separatist fighters. Similarly, the government has alleged that the crowning of the family head of the ‘Kam’ compound in Vekovi, Jakiri Subdivision, is part of a separatist agenda to create “puppet Fons”—a baseless claim meant to sow division and weaken our communities.
Moreover, in June, the SDO falsely accused Fon Nweh II of Mbiame village of providing “aid and comfort to separatist terrorists.” These repeated and unfounded accusations serve only to create mistrust and conflict, pressuring traditional leaders to align with the government’s repressive agenda. Traditional rulers cannot be weaponized in a state-driven war. They must be allowed to remain neutral, upholding their roles as custodians of culture and unity within their villages.
This ongoing interference contradicts the principles of the “Special Status” that the government claims to have granted the regions. The SDO’s assertion that the creation and modification of chiefdoms falls solely under the Minister of Territorial Administration’s control dismisses the traditional authority and the house of chiefs’ supposed role in overseeing such cultural matters. Once again, we witness the Cameroon government undermining the autonomy it claims to respect, disregarding the cultural rights of our people for its political aims.
Masquerades, traditional dances, and ancestral rites are foundational to our culture and identity. These dances connect the present with our ancestral past, honoring our heritage and reinforcing community bonds. The government’s attempt to erode this rich cultural fabric is an attack on the very essence of our people—a people who have already seen so much taken from them. Now, even the last stronghold of cultural expression is under threat.
This ban is not only unconstitutional but reflects the same colonial-style tactics of repression that have seen the forced closure of shops and the punishment of traders for participating in peaceful protests, such as the “ghost towns.” PRAP urges the brave people of NSO (Mbanso People ) to resist and disregard this unlawful ban and all other forms of cultural oppression.
Only a negotiated settlement can bring an end to this conflict and restore any measure of respect for the Cameroon government among our people. Intimidation and cultural repression will only deepen our resolve for self-determination. The time has come for a true recognition of our rights, our heritage, and our people’s dignity.
Capo Daniel
Chairman PRAP
