Martin A. Nkemngu
2 April 2008
It is often said that every cloud has a silver lining. That holds true for the tragic violent demonstrations of last February. While those sad events attracted shock and condemnation from across the country, it is difficult for any one to deny that the happenings have triggered a sudden reawakening in government circles.
Government appears now to be seriously on the move. After the Head of State's announcement of stringent measures to improve the wellbeing of Cameroonians, the government has quickly taken the cue for the concrete implementation of the measures. Whether it be addressing the problem of soaring prices of basic commodities, combating bribery and corruption, curbing excesses in government spending or checking the rising crime wave, one cannot deny that government is on the move. Inertia, laxity and political rhetoric are gradually giving way to positive and vigorous action.
At last Thursday's cabinet meeting, Prime Minister, Chief Ephraim Inoni hit his hand on the table and took courageous and praiseworthy measures to cut down extravagant and ostentatious spending by members of government. The decision to suspend the acquisition of administrative vehicles, the reduction of missions abroad and the trimming down of the size of such missions received popular acclaim as a sincere attempt to improve and streamline the management of public finances.
While the public was still watching to see how far the Inoni government will go to translate President Biya's directives into concrete reality, another move was taken to prove the new no-nonsense posture of the government. On Monday March 31, two high profile former members of government were picked up for questioning on allegations of embezzlement of public funds. The arrest of Polycarpe Abah Abah, former Minister of Finance and Urbain Olanguena Awono, former Minister of Public Health has convinced doubting Thomases of the seriousness of government to combat bribery and corruption at all levels. The action might have been slow but it has surely arrived at a timely moment!
Salutary as these measures may be, it is obvious that there will always be people in the system who will find it difficult to adjust themselves to the new rhythm of doing things because old habits die hard. For instance, after the Prime Minister's order, some ministers have gone ahead to publish tenders for the acquisition of administrative vehicles. Some may argue that the tenders were already drawn before the Prime Minister's banning order but, considering the prevailing climate and the need for coherence of government action in the public eye, steps should have been taken to correct the situation.
One of the most difficult conditions for government to meet is that of keeping down commodity prices and for this venture, the Minister of Trade cannot succeed alone. The collaboration of the private sector is very much needed. Reports of impending increase of the price of cement is no good omen for the campaign to ameliorate the living conditions of citizenry. The government has to work hand in glove with stakeholders in the private sector in order to obtain lasting results. An increase in the price of cement now will be seen as total disregard of the Head of State's instructions.
And the action of government must be constant and sustainable in order to win public confidence and trust. All that it takes is the political will. Once there is sustainable positive action, the government will enjoy the support of the people.
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