From Baba II to 'Liberty Square', SDF retraces its founding footsteps in 35th anniversary commemoration

On Monday, 26 May 2025, the Social Democratic Front (SDF) commemorated its 35th anniversary with solemn tributes to the party’s founding fathers and martyrs. The occasion was marked by a wreath-laying and prayer ceremony in Baba II, a village that holds great memories in the party’s history.

SDF officials at Liberty Square (City Chemist Roundabout) in Bamenda 

Leading the ceremony was Hon. Joshua Osih, SDF National Chairperson, accompanied by national, regional and local party officials. The delegation paid respects at the gravesites of key figures in the party's founding and existence, including Ni John Fru Ndi, Professor Zacharias Siga Asanga, Dr. Azefor, Barrister Sama Francis, and Madam Rose Fru Ndi, the wife of the founding chairman.

Prayers were offered for the peaceful repose of their souls and for continued strength and guidance in the party’s mission. Hon. Osih used the occasion to reflect on the ideals that gave birth to the SDF and the need for continued political engagement in pursuit of democratic reforms.

Gravesite of Professor Zacharias Siga Asanga in Baba II 

According to him, the party had gathered to remember the courage and conviction of its founders. "Thirty-five years on, their dream still guides us. We remain committed to building a Cameroon that serves all its citizens,” Osih shared 

The day of the commemoration coincided with a Monday, a day that has come to carry a special rhythm in parts of the North West  Region due to prevailing socio-political tensions. Nevertheless, the ceremony proceeded with a sense of solemnity and reflection, acknowledging the historical weight of the date and the sacrifices made over the decades.

“We are here on a Monday because our mission transcends fear. We owe it to our founding fathers to show that the fire they lit still burns. If we are to transform this nation, we must remain bold, even on the most difficult of days,” Osih asserted.

Hon Joshua Osih, SDF militants, sympathisers at gravesites of Ni John Fru Ndi and wife Rose 

Ironically, many have historically linked the very concept of ghost towns to early civil disobedience calls by Ni John Fru Ndi in the 1990s. His burial, the consecration of his mausoleum, and now this second anniversary tribute have all happened on ghostown days an alignment not lost on the party faithful and political observers.

Adding to the day’s symbolic weight, heavy rains fell across event locations, including Baba II, echoing a familiar pattern that has accompanied nearly every SDF anniversary celebration over the years.

After the solemn rituals in Baba II, Regional Chairperson Fongu Cletus Tanwe led a delegation to Liberty Square (City Chemist Roundabout) in Bamenda, the site where six young supporters were killed during the party’s official launch in 1990. A wreath was laid in memory of Fidelis Chosi Mankam, Tifuh Mathias Teboh, Asanji Christopher Fombi, Nfon Edwin Jatop, Juliette Sikod, and Toje Evaristus Chatum ordinary citizens who paid the ultimate price for the dream of political pluralism in Cameroon. Prayers were led by Deputy Mayor and NEC member Koti Joseph Tita, asking for divine strength as the SDF recommits to its founding principles.

Benjamin Fru Ndi in father's mausoleum 

Talking to Hilltopvoices, Benjamin Fru Ndi, son of the late Ni John Fru Ndi reflected on the legacy of the party and those who founded it.

“It feels so real. It doesn’t seem like 35 years have passed. What they built came not from politics alone, but from deep friendship and conviction. They did not just complain they acted.” Benjamin said 

He recalled how the party was birthed from late-night conversations among close friends who believed in an alternative Cameroon, one built on truth, equality, and opportunity.

Hon Joshua Osih, Benjamin others at Barrister Sama's gravesite 

“These men were not sophisticated for the sake of being so. Their ideas were rooted in the simplicity of truth and the complexity of courage. They believed we could build a society of equal opportunities, and they stood by it, even at great personal cost.”

Asked whether the founding fathers would be proud of the party today, Benjamin was unequivocal:

“Yes, because they knew the journey would not be easy. They went against a leviathan, fully aware of the risks. The SDF remains central in national discourse not peripheral. Our battle has never been about merely holding office. It has always been about transforming the system. That’s why federalism remains our call. We want to give power back to the people.”

Benjamin also addressed public perceptions that the party has waned in relevance:

“The SDF is in people’s hearts. We are not gone. We are re-focusing. The noise may be loud, but it won’t drown out the truth. The fight is not over; we are simply in another phase of it.”

The SDF's 35th anniversary has has become a declaration that despite years of political suppression, loss, internal challenges, and shifting public sentiments, the party remains committed to the core ideals upon which it was founded: justice, democracy, and equal opportunity for all Cameroonians.

At the gravesite of Dr Azefor in Baba II 

As the rains fell and wreaths were laid, the message was clear: the Social Democratic Front may have been forged in struggle, but it has no intention of fading quietly. The flame still burns.

By Bakah Derick 

Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com 

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