BY SIMON NDIVE KALLA
The Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Fako, Engelbert Viang Mekala has instructed Divisional Officers (DOs) in Fako, to mandate all 1st, 2nd and 3rd Class traditional rulers in Fako to be “effectively present” at the grandstand to celebrate the 53rd edition of Cameroon’s national day, celebrated every year on May 20. He made this statement in a communique dated Thursday, May 15, 2025.
In his correspondence, the SDO says, “the unjustified absence of any traditional ruler will immediately be subjected to a request for explanation and a disciplinary file be sent to hierarchy”, he said.
The action of Fako SDO being received with mixed feelings comes after that of South West Governor, Bernard Okalia Bilai, who at the height of the Anglophone crisis some years ago, instructed traditional rulers to make signboards which they were to hold and march on May 20, followed by locals from their villages.
Years after Okalia’s order which was met with condemnation, the new SDO for Fako, Engelbert Viang Mekala has again followed his boss’ footsteps, instructing traditional rulers in a manner like pupils and students to show up for National Day or face disciplinary actions.
It remains to be seen on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 whether Fako Chiefs will bow to the SDO’s orders through the DOs or stand their ground and request the administration to put some respect to the institutions the Chiefs represent.