Agbor Balla Calls for Transitional Government, Reforms to Rebuild Cameroon’s Future

Reiterating his long-standing advocacy for a federal system, the human rights lawyer said Cameroon’s unity would be strengthened, not weakened, by genuine federalism.

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

BUEA, Cameroon – Renowned human rights advocate Nkongho Felix Agbor “Balla” has called for the creation of a transitional government and far-reaching political reforms in Cameroon, describing the upcoming October 12 presidential election as a defining moment for the nation’s unity, justice, and democratic renewal.

In a strongly worded statement titled “A Call for a Transitional Government and Wide-Ranging Reforms for Cameroon’s Future,” Agbor Balla said Cameroon stands “at a crossroads” and urged political actors to seize the opportunity to rebuild the country on the foundations of equality, accountability, and reconciliation.

“The painful history of marginalization, the ongoing crisis in the North West and South West Regions, and the widespread demand for political change compel me to set out the following proposals for consideration by all presidential candidates and political stakeholders,” he said while adding that, “these are not partisan demands but they are necessary steps to heal our nation and secure a peaceful, democratic future.”

Agbor Balla’s foremost proposal is the formation of an inclusive transitional government with a three-to-four-year mandate immediately after the elections. He said such a government should bring together political leaders, civil society, and regional representatives to: Oversee national reconciliation and inclusive dialogue, implement deep institutional and governance reforms, and prepare the groundwork for free, fair, and transparent post-transition elections.

“This government must reflect Cameroon’s diversity, bringing together political actors, civil society, and regional representatives,” Agbor Balla emphasised

Reiterating his long-standing advocacy for a federal system, the human rights lawyer said Cameroon’s unity would be strengthened, not weakened, by genuine federalism. He proposed a federal arrangement where each state would have constitutional authority over its governance, resources, and cultural identity within a united Cameroon.

Agbor Balla also called for the immediate release of all political detainees, particularly those held in connection with the Anglophone crisis. He said: “Cameroon cannot move forward while thousands remain detained for political, security, or conscience-related reasons.”

He proposed amnesty and clemency measures for individuals convicted under what he described as “harsh or disproportionate sentences,” calling such steps vital for “national healing and rebuilding trust.”

The human rights advocate further urged that a new constitution be drafted during the transition period through a transparent, participatory process.

He outlined key provisions the constitution should include: A rotational presidency to ensure equitable regional representation, clearly defined federal powers insulated from central interference, an independent, non-partisan electoral commission, and Strong protection for minority rights in language, culture, and resource allocation.

To address historical injustices and divisions, Agbor Balla called for the establishment of a National Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission.

Such a process, he said, would enable the country to confront its past and chart a new path toward unity and healing.

Concluding his appeal, Agbor Balla urged all presidential candidates, civil society actors, and citizens to engage with and refine these proposals. He said: “Cameroon’s future must be built on truth, justice, collective responsibility, and the expressed will of the people. The time to act is now.”

He warned that any undemocratic transition of power would deepen instability and prolong the suffering of ordinary Cameroonians, already burdened by “bad roads, poor healthcare, and unstable electricity.

“An undemocratic transition of power in Cameroon could open the floodgates of further instability, erode the already weakened legitimacy of critical institutions, and expand the vortex of undemocratic governance in Cameroon, paving the way for collective suffering evidenced by champagne for a few and insufficient portable drinking water, bad roads, poor healthcare, unstable electricity supply, poorly equipped schools, and lacklustre economic transformation for the overwhelming majority,” Agbor Balla noted.