Cameroon: Agbor Balla Endorses Issa Tchiroma, Calls for Unity and Reconciliation

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

BUEA, Cameroon – Prominent human rights advocate Barrister Nkongho Felix Agbor, popularly known as Agbor Balla, has officially endorsed Issa Tchiroma Bakary, candidate of the Cameroon National Salvation Front (FSNC), in the upcoming October 12 presidential election.

In a statement issued in Garoua on Friday, Agbor Balla described the 2025 polls as a “defining moment” in Cameroon’s history, one that offers citizens a chance for “national rebirth rooted in justice, unity, and shared destiny.”

“It is in this spirit of reconciliation and civic duty that I, Nkongho Felix Agbor "Agbor Balla", a human rights advocate and opinion leader, formally express my endorsement of Issa Tchiroma Bakary for the office of President of the Republic of Cameroon,” Agbor Balla said.

Agbor Balla praised Tchiroma’s recent public apology to Anglophones, calling it “a courageous and humane act of leadership” that demonstrated humility and moral clarity, traits he said were “rare in Cameroon’s political culture.”

He noted that the gesture went beyond politics, speaking “directly to the conscience of our nation,” and marked a step toward addressing the historical grievances that have long strained national unity.

Endorsement Anchored in Principle, Not Politics

The lawyer and civil society leader emphasised that his endorsement was not partisan, but based on shared principles of dialogue, inclusion, and reform.

He lauded Tchiroma’s vision for a limited transitional mandate, which he said reflects “the understanding that Cameroon must first heal, reconcile, and reform its institutions before it can truly prosper.”

“Beyond apology, Tchiroma has articulated a bold vision for a transitional government, a peaceful and inclusive process aimed at rebuilding the foundations of our Republic,” Agbor Balla added.

“His proposal for a limited transitional mandate reflects the understanding that Cameroon must first heal, reconcile, and reform its institutions before it can truly prosper. This is not a quest for power; it is a call for restoration-the rebuilding of trust, governance, and the social contract between the people and the state.”

A Call for National Renewal

Agbor Balla urged Cameroonians to look beyond traditional political divisions and embrace the opportunity to rebuild the nation on the values of truth, accountability, and justice.

Cameroon cannot move forward without truth, accountability, and reform.” He said. “We must embark on a deliberate process of national rebuilding of institutions, trust, and citizenship that ensures justice for the marginalised and opportunity for all.”

The outspoken advocate, known for his role in the Anglophone civil society movement, called on voters to reflect on the “possibility of a new Cameroon united in diversity, governed by integrity, and driven by the will of its people.”

Agbor Balla’s endorsement adds a significant voice to the national debate just two days before the presidential election. It comes amid a campaign season marked by calls for reconciliation, political inclusion, and national dialogue.

“My endorsement of Tchiroma is therefore not partisan. It is anchored in principle; the principle that our country's salvation lies in dialogue, inclusion, and the moral courage to admit past wrongs and chart a new path forward.”

The statement was made in Garoua, North Region, less than two days before Cameroonians head to the polls for Sunday’s crucial vote. “As citizens prepare to cast their votes, I call on every Cameroonian to reflect not on old divisions, but on the possibility of a new Cameroon united in diversity, governed by integrity, and driven by the will of its people,” Agbor Balla said.

“Our nation's renewal begins with choices rooted in hope, humility, and humanity. This election is one such moment.”