– Says late SDF chairman would be reported for his significant contribution in advancing democracy in Cameroon
By Doh James Sonkey
The Chairperson of the Electoral Board of Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), Enow Abrams Egbe has paid special tribute to the late opposition Social Democratic Front SDF party National Chairman, John Fru Ndi for his significant contribution to the advancement of democracy in Cameroon. He paid the tribute last June 20, 2023 as he chaired the second ordinary session of the Electoral Board at their Yaounde Head Office.
In his preliminary statement, Dr Enow Abrams Egbe described “FruNdi as a beacon of political resilience in Cameroon. Fru Ndi was a steadfast figure since the advent of multipartyism in the 1990s. His unwavering commitment to strengthening democracy in our nation has inspired a multitude of Cameroonians to actively participate in the electoral process, thereby contributing significantly to the building of our nation. As a significant proponent and symbol of democratic vitality in our country, the Chairman’s achievements and enduring impact on our political landscape as well as his indefatigable efforts towards enhancing our democracy, will always be remembered.”
He invited members of the Electoral Board to give a minute of silence in memory of “a remarkable politician, democrat and enlightened patriot that Mr Fru Ndi was.”
The Electoral Board Chairperson said their meeting was devoted to reviewing and approving the preliminary budget for Elections Cameroon and the Electoral Board’s Special Appropriation for the financial year 2024 which will be submitted to government for concerted consideration as prescribed by Section 33 Sub -2 of the Electoral Code.
Dr Enow Abrams Egbe stated that reviewing the preliminary budget of the institution is a crucial step at ensuring the optimal and effective implementation of projects planned for 2024. He said they shared views on strategic and operational guidelines aimed at approving a realistic yet ambitious draft budget that aligns with the institution’s and Cameroon’s aspirations and objectives. “This is particularly crucial as 2024 promises to be a busy year, given the 2023-2025 electoral cycle,” he stated.
As August 31, 2023 draws nearer for the close of voter’s registration as stated in Article 74 (2) of the Electoral Code), he used the opportunity to present current electoral statistics. He revealed that as at date, some 225,879 new potential voters have been registered, representing an increase of more than 4% as compared to last year. Amongst the total number are 82,995 women, 160,120 youths and 231 persons with physical challenges, bringing the total number to 7, 380, 944 registered persons.
A progress report on previous field trips carried out by members of the Electoral Board during the last months was also presented and the terms of reference for the next supervisory mission to regions discussed.