A ceasefire for three days
In a gesture that few expected, separatist groups in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions announced a three-day pause in fighting. The reason: the visit of Pope Leo XIV this Wednesday.
The measure, they say, seeks to guarantee a “safe trip” for civilians, pilgrims and authorities. It is a brief respite in a conflict that has been bleeding the country for years.
“The truce responds to the deep spiritual importance of the event,” explained Lucas Asu, spokesman for the Alliance for Unity, which brings together several separatist movements.
Asu added that the decision reflects a commitment to moderation and respect for human dignity, even in the midst of armed confrontation. An interesting rhetorical wink, coming from those who have been at war for years.
The government is silent, the Pope arrives
The Cameroonian government, dominated by the French-speaking majority, has not responded directly to the announcement. His official spokesman, René Sadi, previously limited himself to saying that “all measures” were taken for the success of the visit.
The pontiff arrives in Yaoundé after beginning a tour of four African countries. But the highlight will be in Bamenda, considered the epicenter of violence.
There he will lead a “peace meeting”. The rebels were clear: they want their visit to remain in the spiritual realm. May it not be interpreted as political support for any side.
Their caution is understandable. This conflict broke out in 2017 and has already left more than 6,000 dead and around 600,000 displaced. Negotiations are stalled and there is no clear solution in sight.
Three days of calm. Will it be enough for something to change? The history of this region suggests not. But seeing both sides give ground, even if symbolic, at least breaks the usual script of endless violence.
