The enthronement of Prof. Jacques Fame Ndongo as Second Degree Chief of the Bulu-Est I Group raises questions about the respect for ancestral traditions in the face of modern political ambitions. Analyst Christian Emvolo Emvolo explores how this designation, perceived as imposed, creates tensions between administrative structures and local customs, thus threatening social harmony and the legitimacy of Bulu traditional institutions.
In an Opinio captioned “ south region of cameroon: how prof. fame ndongo circumvents bulu ancestral customs to impose his vision of chieftaincy in the heart of the mvilla department” ChristianEemvolo Emvolo , writes ,The enthronement of Prof. Jacques Fame Ndongo as Second Degree Chief of the Bulu-Est I Group highlights a complex interaction between cultural traditions, administrative structures, and political ambitions in Cameroon.
This situation reveals the tensions that emerge between the demands of modernity and the respect for ancestral customs, particularly within the Bulu culture. In the Bulu tradition, chieftaincy is an essential element that represents authority, wisdom, and the continuity of community values. Access to this chieftaincy is generally subject to precise rules, taking into account lineages, clans, and initiation rites.
Each village has its own customs and notables that must be honored to preserve social harmony. Thus, chieftaincy is not limited to an administrative function but first and foremost has a sacred dimension, linking the living to the ancestors and the spirits of the land. The designation of Jacques Fame Ndongo, who holds significant political responsibilities, raises doubts as to the legitimacy of this designation. As Minister of State and regional coordinator of the RDPC, his power of influence over public affairs could be perceived as an abuse, compromising the integrity of traditional institutions. This feeling of injustice is fueled by the fact that his accession to the chieftaincy was facilitated by administrative maneuvers that, in the end, circumvent the traditions and rites of accession specific to the Bulu culture. The customary notables, who should play a central role in such a designation, seem to have been sidelined. The conclave of Customary Notables, responsible for validating this nomination, was approached with suspicion, and the presence of influential political figures created a climate where respect for traditions is called into question. The fear of reprisals weighs heavily on the villagers, who, despite their disagreement, choose silence in the face of an elite more concerned with its own interests than with the collective well-being. This situation illustrates a fracture between the ambitions of the elites and the realities of the local populations. The growing discontent of the villagers with this imposition of a chieftaincy that does not respect traditional norms could have serious consequences. The tensions between the clans, exacerbated by this designation, risk further weakening the social cohesion already weakened by socio-economic issues such as unemployment and the alienation of land for the benefit of non-natives. Prof. Fame Ndongo, in seeking to concentrate power, becomes a symbol of an elite disconnected from the realities on the ground. The difficulties faced by the South Region, particularly in terms of infrastructure and access to employment, are often attributed to figures like him, who, by abusing their power, undermine the image and future of their community. Thus, the legitimacy of his authority as a traditional chief is not only questioned, but it could also create lasting divisions within Bulu society. It is important to remember that respect for traditions and ancestral customs is an essential condition for the sustainability of traditional institutions. By neglecting these values, Jacques Fame Ndongo not only compromises his own legitimacy but also jeopardizes the harmony and social order that have always prevailed in the Bulu culture. If this trend continues, it could lead to a questioning of traditional authorities and a general disenchantment with institutions, both traditional and administrative. Thus, the question of the political future of Cameroon arises acutely. If elites like Prof. Fame Ndongo continue to act outside the traditional frameworks and socio-cultural expectations, this could lead to growing despair among the populations, who will feel increasingly dispossessed of their cultural heritage and identity. In a context where political power can be unstable, it is important that leaders become aware of the importance of cultural legitimacy and the social dynamics that strengthen the fabric of their community.”
source.ChristianEemvolo Emvolo
Edited by Chifu Edward
Publisher/ Editor
Community Radio consultant and Facilitator
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