Ndangoh Tah Calvin Questions Government Silence Over Attacks on Cameroonians Abroad

By Lasha Kingsly 

Recent reports of xenophobic attacks targeting Africans, including Cameroonians and other foreign nationals in South Africa, have renewed concerns over the protection of African citizens on the continent.

The continued silence and perceived lack of strong response from some African governments, including Cameroon, have raised questions about the commitment to defending citizens facing discrimination and hostility abroad.

In a statement, Ntumfon Barrister Ndangoh Tah Calvin questioned why stronger diplomatic measures have not been taken to address repeated acts of hostility against fellow Africans in South Africa.

He argued that African unity cannot be achieved through speeches and declarations while citizens of one African nation are being attacked, intimidated, or denied opportunities in another.

According to him, diplomacy should be based on mutual respect and reciprocity, stressing that countries must ensure fair treatment for each other’s citizens.

“If you treat my citizens with dignity and fairness, I will ensure that your citizens receive the same treatment in my country,” he said, adding that Cameroon must reconsider its bilateral relations with countries where its citizens face discrimination.

Barrister Ndangoh Tah Calvin noted that reciprocity remains an important principle in international relations but lamented that it is often overlooked when defending the interests of Cameroonians abroad.

He said many citizens continue to face humiliation, unfair treatment, and discrimination in foreign countries, while Cameroon appears reluctant to take firm action for fear of diplomatic tensions.

“What diplomatic relationship exists if it only requires Cameroon to remain silent while its citizens suffer?” he questioned, insisting that diplomacy should protect national interests and citizens’ welfare.

He also raised concerns over the treatment of some Cameroonians within the country, especially in disputes involving foreign nationals, saying such situations create perceptions that local citizens are not adequately protected.

The lawyer urged the government to put the welfare of Cameroonians at the centre of its diplomatic engagements and respond firmly whenever citizens face unfair restrictions or discriminatory practices abroad.

On the situation in South Africa, he called for urgent measures to ensure the safety of Cameroonians affected by xenophobic violence and urged authorities to engage South African officials to guarantee the protection of migrants.

He recalled the difficulties faced by businessman Alhaji Baba Ahmadou Danpullo in South Africa, describing the episode as a reminder that even prominent African investors can face challenges linked to discrimination.

Barrister Ndangoh Tah Calvin said Cameroon must not remain passive when the rights and dignity of its citizens are threatened.

He called for stronger diplomatic action to ensure that the principles of justice, reciprocity, and national dignity remain central in Cameroon’s international relations.