Political Motives or Community Welfare? Analyzing the Controversy Surrounding the Babadjou Fon’s Summons of Pentecostal Pastors.
In a recent press release, the Paramount Chief of Babadjou, HRM Kaffo Sambankeing Langevin, has invited all pastors of Pentecostal Churches in his jurisdiction to an important meeting at the Hall of Acts of the Chiefdom on January 13, 2025. The press release, dated January 10, 2025, requests that each pastor bring the presidential decree granting authorization for the opening of their church and supporting documents proving their status as men of God. The agenda for the meeting will be communicated during the gathering.
This move has sparked a heated debate among Cameroonians, with many questioning the Fon’s authority to summon such a meeting and request these documents. The traditional ruler’s actions are said to be in compliance with President Biya’s decree that all churches in the country must have government authorization to operate. However, the legitimacy of the Fon’s role in enforcing this decree has been called into question.
Critics argue that the Fon has overstepped his bounds and is acting beyond his competence. “That is not his role. That is the DO’s responsibility,” stated Tonlung Christian Wozizung. Others believe that the Fon’s actions are politically motivated, aimed at gaining favor with political authorities. “Desperation! All because Biya has been asked to step aside. This battle against the church will fail,” commented Momorhie Edmund Momorhie. Some see this as an attempt to suppress the voices of church leaders who have recently called for President Paul Biya not to contest in the upcoming elections.
Supporters of the Fon’s decision argue that it is within his rights to summon those operating within his jurisdiction. “The chief has the right to ask those doing any activity under his jurisdiction to meet with him,” said Prophet Kismet Nkwenti. Others believe that the move is necessary to ensure that churches operate legally and contribute positively to the community. “Any Church that cannot provide services to the community like a school and hospital is a one Business and should be closed or restructured and heavy taxes imposed,” stated Mc Reneblack Wain Viboa.
The controversy has also highlighted broader issues regarding the role of traditional rulers in modern governance and the separation of church and state. Some argue that the Fon should focus on the customs and traditions of his people and leave political matters to politicians. “Overzealous traditional ruler. Focus on the customs and tradition of your people and allow politics to politicians,” commented Gideon Kang. Others believe that the Fon’s actions are a reflection of the broader challenges facing the church in Cameroon, including the need for proper regulation and oversight.
The Fon’s summons of Pentecostal pastors in Babadjou has sparked a significant debate about the role of traditional rulers, the enforcement of government decrees, and the regulation of religious institutions. While some support the Fon’s actions as necessary for ensuring legal compliance and community contribution, others see it as an overreach of authority and a politically motivated move. As the meeting approaches, it remains to be seen how this controversy will unfold and what impact it will have on the relationship between the church, traditional rulers, and the government in Cameroon.
It is worthy to note that, HRM Kaffo Sambankeing Langevin as the 11th Fon of Babadjou was just recently coronated, and have been serving just for about 3 months, his coronation took place on September 14, 2024. This significant event marked the end of a seven-year interregnum following the death of his father, HRM Sambankeing Temgoua Bertrand, in 2017. The young Fon, who was selected immediately after his father’s death, had to complete his academic pursuits before assuming the throne. He holds a diploma in Agricultural Engineering as an Agricultural Technician and is expected to become an agronomist in 2025.
Babadjou, located in the Bamboutos Division of the West Region of Cameroon, has a rich history dating back to the late 16th century. The community was initially settled by seven hunters from the Tikar plain, who found the area abundant in wildlife and water resources. Over time, the settlers, known as the “Bafoung,” split into two groups due to a succession dispute, forming the Babadjou and Bamessingue communities. The name “Babadjou” is believed to have originated from the phrase “PAAH PA JOUO,” meaning “We will see,” following the assassination of a local monarch by German colonizers in 1909.
The Fon of Babadjou wields significant power and influence within his community. As a traditional ruler, he oversees a kingdom of over 57,000 people and plays a crucial role in maintaining social order and cultural heritage. The Fon’s authority is deeply rooted in the customs and traditions of the Babadjou people, and he is supported by a council of notables and elders who assist in governance and conflict resolution. The Fon’s position is not only symbolic but also practical, as he is involved in various aspects of community development and administration.
By Tata Nelson Berinyuy for the Uncle Ne Newspaper