Cameroon’s leading peace advocate, Ntumfor Barrister Nico Halle, has made a compelling appeal for change. He calls for the revival of traditional leaders’ authority, emphasizing their vital role in maintaining social cohesion. His insights are particularly timely as Cameroon navigates complex socio-political challenges that require effective conflict resolution mechanisms.
Barrister Halle began by exploring the historical evolution of traditional leadership in Cameroon, highlighting its significance during the pre-colonial era. “Traditional rulers were not merely leaders; they were the custodians of customs and traditions, serving as both spiritual and temporal authorities within their communities,” he remarked. During this period, these leaders wielded considerable power and autonomy, enabling them to effectively manage disputes and provide guidance to their people.
However, Halle pointed out that the colonial era marked a significant turning point. “During colonization, local chiefs lost their sovereignty. The imposition of colonial rule diluted their authority, and this trend continued into the post-colonial era,” he explained. Today, traditional rulers often find themselves relegated to the status of “auxiliaries of the administration,” a position that undermines their traditional roles and capabilities. “This shift has eroded the effectiveness of traditional rulers in conflict resolution,” Halle asserted, noting that their legitimacy is increasingly questioned in the context of modern governance structures, which often fail to recognize their contributions.
Halle made a strong case for restoring the authority of traditional leaders. He acknowledged that while it may be unrealistic to expect absolute autonomy reminiscent of the pre-colonial period, empowering these leaders is essential for fostering community cohesion. “Communities should have the autonomy to appoint their rulers, free from governmental interference, thereby reinforcing the respect and trust that subjects have in their leadership,” he proposed. He elaborated on the need to maintain the dignity of traditional rulers, stating, “When communities choose their leaders based on customs, it fosters a sense of belonging and unity.” By restoring their authority, traditional rulers can play a more effective role in conflict resolution, reducing disputes related to chieftaincy (the right of inheritance).
Halle also emphasized the importance of providing adequate financial resources to traditional leaders, which would help ensure their independence from political manipulation. “If traditional rulers are provided with sufficient financial support, they can resist pressures from politicians and concentrate on their primary role: serving their communities,” he noted. By minimizing their involvement in partisan politics, traditional rulers could reclaim their status as impartial mediators, creating an environment where diverse voices are acknowledged and respected.
The socio-political landscape in Cameroon presents significant challenges for traditional rulers, especially in conflict-affected areas. Halle lamented, “Many traditional rulers have been forced to flee their ancestral lands, weakening their influence.” This displacement has diminished their authority and reduced the sanctity of their palaces, which should serve as safe havens for the community. He called for renewed efforts to ensure the safety of traditional rulers, emphasizing, “When traditional rulers cannot find protection in their palaces, their subjects lose faith in the very institutions meant to provide security and justice.”
Additionally, Halle advocated for promoting core moral values—such as love, justice, and integrity—within communities. “We must instill these values at various societal levels,” he urged. He believes nurturing these moral foundations would empower traditional rulers to mediate disputes effectively. “By fostering these virtues, we can heal a divided society,” he said.
Barrister Halle concluded his presentation by reiterating the urgent need for authorities to reassess the roles and competencies of traditional rulers. “We must revisit the competencies accorded to traditional rulers to ensure they can realize their full potential,” he stated emphatically. From Halle’s insights, it is clear that traditional rulers are not relics of the past but vital figures in shaping the future of their communities. “By restoring their authority and recognizing their potential, we can harness the wisdom of traditional leaders to foster a more harmonious society,” he asserted. Moreover, the collaboration between traditional rulers and modern governance structures will be essential in addressing the complexities of inter-community disputes. “Only through this synergy can we ensure lasting peace across Cameroon,” Halle stated.