Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mimi Mefo Info (Editor)
Published on 2024-02-17 10:55:28
The Member of Parliament for Nkambe Central Constituency, Hon Ngala Gerard, has denied accusations that he paid students to attend the 11th February National Youth Day celebration in Nkambe, where an explosion occurred.
In a video, Hon Ngala admitted to distributing money to people in villages outside of Nkambe town, but emphasized that his generosity had nothing to do with the Youth Day celebrations. The allegations emerged after videos showed him giving money to the population, primarily women and children, on the same day as the explosion.
Hon Ngala rejected the accusations of trying to lure people to the Youth Day event with cash, and claimed that the incident was a result of blackmail and an attempt to tarnish his image. He clarified that the cash distribution took place in Tabenken, a village not attending the 11th February celebrations in Nkambe.
The allegations against Hon Ngala were not uncommon, as Anglophone politicians have frequently been accused of using money and gifts to persuade people to participate in national events despite separatist lockdowns. It is assumed that these politicians utilize population turnouts to showcase their efforts for peace amid the conflict and to gain favor and protection from the government.
Amid separatist threats and lockdowns, Nkambe witnessed a high turnout for the Youth Day celebrations, while other Anglophone towns experienced disruptions. However, when the explosion occurred, accusations were directed at Hon Ngala for leading children to their doom.
The attack in Nkambe was claimed by separatists as a “warning” to the locals for defying lockdown orders. It was widely condemned for targeting civilians, and the US, UK, and French embassies, as well as President Paul Biya, condemned the attack.
Hon Ngala described the attack as absurd and expressed sympathy for the affected families. He emphasized the determination of the parents to continue sending their children to school, despite the threats and attacks.
The aftermath of the attack in Nkambe will have a lasting impact, with children and women suffering from amputations and families grieving the loss of loved ones, including 15-year-old student Cherish Lemnyuy who died in the explosion.
Overall, the article discusses the controversy surrounding Hon Ngala Gerard and the allegations that he paid people to attend the Youth Day celebration in Nkambe. The aftermath of the explosion, including physical and emotional repercussions, is also highlighted.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
