By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Evelyn N
Published on 2024-02-06 17:07:10
Residents of the Selbé Darang neighborhood in Ngaoundéré, Adamawa Region of Cameroon, are facing the threat of eviction due to the government’s plans to expand the nearby airport. The situation has caused anger and confusion among the residents, who accuse local authorities of corruption and lack of transparency.
The outgoing Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) of Vina Division, Awounfack Alienou Yves Bertrand, is being accused of ordering the demolition of houses without proper notification or compensation. The situation intensified with the installation of the incoming SDO, Kuela Valéri Norbert, as troubling incidents have raised questions about the use of force and questionable practices.
A detailed account shared by a concerned victim alleges that police and gendarmes were deployed to forcefully demolish houses in the neighborhood. The lack of media presence and restrictions on recording or documenting the event have caused uncertainty among the community. Approximately 250 hectares of disputed land, home to 352 families and under construction by others, is under threat of destruction.
The crux of the issue lies in a disputed land area. In 2018, the Minister of Lands signed a “DUP” (declaration of public utility) for the land, classifying it as government property. However, despite the expiration of the DUP in 2020 and lack of renewal, residents purchased plots and began construction in the area.
In June 2023, President Biya signed a decree classifying the same area as part of the national domain, followed by a Prime Ministerial list identifying individuals eligible for eviction compensation. This list, however, is contested by residents, who claim it includes people who don’t live in the area and haven’t invested there. Additionally, the compensation process was abruptly halted after only two days, leaving many residents questioning its legitimacy.
Frustrated by the lack of response from authorities, residents have petitioned the Prime Minister and other high-level officials, but their pleas have been ignored. The residents of Selbé Darang are seeking clear answers, fair compensation, and a chance to be heard in the complex issue of land rights and development in Cameroon.
Some key questions remain unanswered, including why the Prime Minister has ignored residents’ petitions, the basis for the eviction list, and why the compensation process was halted. The situation highlights the need for transparency and respect for the rights of affected communities. Only time will tell if the authorities will address these concerns and find a just resolution for the residents of Selbé Darang.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
