Cintia A. , Lebledparle.com
The initiative which aims at stablising the increasing price of basic necessities , is to run until the end of January. The SDF, denounces it as a political tactic which is unfair, as it favour extends only to some region.
Rice, a key products of this operation, is selling for up to 15,000 a 50kg bag, an operation, the authorities say will help mitigate the impact of inflation on household purchasing power and guarantee food security for the population. However, critics argue that despite the move, the population still remains impoverished.
In a statement issued on 11 January by the Minister of Commerce, Luc Magloire Atangana, and widely circulated on social media, militants of the ruling CPDM party in the Mefou and Afamba departments were invited to buy a bag of rice at CFAF 15,000, which is almost half the market price.
Exclusionism
The Minister’s statement has drawn public discontentment, given that the price of rice have reach high records due to increased cost of living. The SDF further denounced this measure as a blatant example of favouritism and manipulation. The party said it reflected the predatory nature of Paul Biya’s regime, which has ruled Cameroon for more than four decades.
The opposition party wondered why such favour was limited to the populations of Mefou and Afamba, to the exclusion of other regions such as Diamaré, Mbéré, Kadey, Océan, Sanaga Maritime and Koung-Khi. “Is there more than one Cameroon? Are some citizens more deserving than others? Or are we creating second-class Cameroonians?” reads the SDF press release. Joshua OSIH’s party also questioned the legality and morality of a minister who prioritises the interests of one specific region over others. The party described the move as an attempt to buy public support ahead of this year’s presidential elections. “This time it won’t work. We will no longer sell our votes for so little,” the SDF said. The party expressed its determination to lead a movement for change.
Calling for the mobilisation of voters, the SDF urged all Cameroonians to register for the forthcoming elections, promising a “New Republic” based on justice, equality and human dignity.
