President Paul Biya has made the decision to retire General Esaie Ngambou following a highly contentious exchange that occurred during a church gathering. The confrontation between General Ngambou, a distinguished three-star general, and Minister Atanga Nji, the Minister of Territorial Administration, has captured public attention and sparked discussions about discipline and accountability within the military.
In a video that quickly circulated on social media, General Ngambou expressed his strong dissatisfaction, asserting that he cannot be branded as an individual lacking faith or moral principles. He boldly highlighted his superior rank and questioned Minister Atanga Nji’s authority to address him in such a manner. The general emphasized his lifelong commitment to military service and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in the country.
The root of the conflict lies in a press release signed by Minister Atanga Nji on June 8th. The press release addressed the opening of a decentralized branch of the Evangelical Church of Cameroon, known as Eglise Evangelique du Cameroun Décentralisée (EEC-D). According to the Minister, this branch was operating without proper authorization and raised concerns about its association with the main Evangelical Church of Cameroon (EEC), which has been embroiled in an internal conflict since 2017.
Minister Atanga Nji’s press release cited the requirement for religious associations to obtain authorization through a decree from the President of the Republic, in accordance with the law on freedom of association. He further clarified that no religious association had been authorized under the name “Eglise Evangelique du Cameroun Décentralisée.” In a subsequent correspondence, Minister Atanga Nji urged the coordinator of EEC-D, Pastor Euloge Yiagnigni Mfopou, to ensure that the new church did not create any confusion with the authorized EEC.
The retirement of General Ngambou by President Biya has significant implications for the military and underscores the importance of discipline, respect for hierarchy, and adherence to regulations. It serves as a clear message that inappropriate behavior and disregard for established protocols will not be tolerated, even among high-ranking officers. The decision emphasizes the need for professionalism, integrity, and accountability within the military institution.
As the retired general steps into a new phase of his career, it remains to be seen how this incident will shape the dynamics between military officers and government officials, as well as the broader discussions on maintaining order and upholding the rule of law in Cameroon.