By Doh James Sonkey
Communication Minister and Government Spokesperson, Rene Emmanuel Sadi says hate speech undermines democratic values, social peace and the stability of the State.
He was speaking at a joint press conference which he granted last May 17, 2023 with the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji and the President of the National Commission for the Promotion of Bilingualism and Multiculturalism, Peter Mafany Musonge on the dizzying rise of hate speech in Cameroon.
The press conference was organized as part of activities to mark the country’s 51st National Day celebrated last May 20, 2023.
Minister Rene Emmanuel Sadi said “At a time when we are hands on deck preparing to celebrate the fifty-first anniversary of National Unity, we have recently witnessed a rise in this scourge in the national space. It is now imperative and a matter of urgency to draw the attention of everyone and urge all to become collectively aware of the harmful consequences of such practices in daily life. From this perspective, it goes without saying that the fight against hate speech must be perceived as an absolute priority towards safeguarding democracy and the Rule of Law, and preserving the values of peace, unity and living together.”
“In our country, the most common manifestations of hate speech today include ethnic and social discrimination, stigmatisation, tribalism, irredentist claims, calls for insurgency and sometimes genocide, gender violence, violence against minorities, and so on.” The Communication boss noted.
Minister Atanga Nji Paul said “hate speech is mostly being used by opposition political party leaders. Some notice-seeking politicians are bent at destroying this nation. They think they can manipulate Cameroonians to obtain power.” The MINAT boss said hate speech threatens peace, social cohesion and unity. It breaths abuses, hatred, rejection, clashes, stigma, genocide, other injustices etc. Quoting the law, he reiterated that perpetrators would be punished. He however stated that government would educate people on dangers of hate speech and instill responsibility and patriotism.
For his part, Peter Mafany Musonge acknowledged the challenge of handling a country of over 250 ethnic groups. He concluded that “Cameroon is a common heritage for us all.”