SDF Returns to Bamenda with Strong Message of Unity and Electoral Readiness
By Wirngo Peter Tardzenyuy
The Social Democratic Front (SDF) has signaled a determined return to its political roots as members of the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) gathered in Bamenda on Saturday, June 13, 2026, for what party leaders described as a historic meeting.
Held at the residence of the late SDF National Chairman, Ni John Fru Ndi, the meeting brought together senior party officials from across the country under the leadership of National Chairman Joshua Osih, who used the occasion to deliver a message of unity, reconciliation and preparation for upcoming elections.
Before the start of deliberations, NEC members paid tribute to the late Fru Ndi, whose legacy continues to shape the party he founded. The leadership also visited his graveside ahead of a thanksgiving service scheduled at his church, Presbyterian Church Musang.
Addressing members, Osih said the gathering was more than an ordinary party meeting.
"We have not come here on tourism. We have come here to stay," he declared, drawing applause from participants.
The SDF Chairman announced that the party was reclaiming its headquarters and reaffirming its presence in Bamenda, which has long been regarded as the political birthplace of the opposition movement.
Osih acknowledged the absence of several NEC members and criticized what he described as a growing reluctance among some officials to attend meetings in Bamenda. According to him, party leaders who shy away from the city cannot be expected to lead the party into future elections.
"If you are afraid of Bamenda, then you are afraid of elections," he said.
At the same time, he extended an olive branch to members who have distanced themselves from the party following internal disagreements that emerged after Fru Ndi's death. He said the NEC remains open to reconciliation and urged them to return and contribute to rebuilding the party.
Beyond internal matters, Osih focused much of his address on electoral preparedness, warning members against complacency amid uncertainties surrounding the country's political calendar. He reminded party officials that elections could be called at any moment and stressed the need for immediate mobilization.
He called on party structures nationwide to intensify voter registration efforts, update voter transfers, recruit new militants and identify campaign and polling agents ahead of future polls.
According to Osih, the SDF's objective is to field candidates across the country and strengthen its presence at both municipal and legislative levels.
"The SDF must be present everywhere. After 36 years, we cannot afford to be absent," he told NEC members.
The National Chairman also challenged party officials to become more visible in national debates, arguing that political relevance depends not only on grassroots mobilization but also on active participation in national media platforms.
He noted that the party's communication efforts are often hindered by the absence of officials willing to publicly defend the party's positions on national radio and television.
Looking ahead, Osih described Cameroon as a country approaching a significant political transition and urged party members to position the SDF as a key actor in shaping the nation's future.
He stressed that unity, discipline and commitment would be essential if the party is to remain relevant and competitive during the changing political landscape.
"We must be ready. We must be present. We must be united," he emphasized.
The NEC meeting, which was still ongoing at press time, is expected to examine the party's electoral strategy, organizational challenges and preparations for the next political cycle.
For many party faithful, the gathering in Bamenda represents more than a routine meeting. It is being viewed as a symbolic return to the city where the SDF was born and a renewed effort to restore cohesion and strengthen the party ahead of crucial national elections.
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