The Cameroon Journalists’ Trade Union (CJTU) North West Chapter held its Elective General Assembly this Thursday in Bamenda, culminating in the election of a new executive and the symbolic swearing-in of its members under a solemn oath to uphold journalistic values.
Presided over by representatives of the National Executive Bureau (NEB), Bakah Derick — First Vice President in charge of International Relations — and Choves Loh, National Adviser, the gathering ushered in a fresh mandate grounded in unity, advocacy, and press freedom.
The newly elected officials, led by President Ruth Che Wachong, took an oath of office administered by veteran journalist Choves Loh. The oath pledged loyalty to the Union's values, the defence of press freedom, protection of journalists’ rights, and promotion of ethical and professional journalism.
“I do solemnly swear to uphold the values and objectives of the Cameroon Journalists’ Trade Union (CJTU)... to defend press freedom without fear or favour,” echoed each of the newly elected members in a symbolic commitment to their peers and profession.
With over 40 registered members in the North West Chapter, only 27 met the eligibility criteria set out by the Union’s electoral code. Of these, 19 were physically present, with three votes cast by proxy. Following a transparent and orderly electoral process, the list, spearheaded by Ruth Che Wachong, received 100% of the votes cast, confirming a unanimous endorsement by eligible members.
Newly elected CJTU NW Executive (2025–2027):
President: Ruth Che Wachong
Vice President for Relations: Fung John
Vice President for Gender: Waindim Sylvia
Secretary General: Ngongsong Jean Marie
Secretary for Solidarity: Jeri Berson
Secretary for Legal Affairs and Litigation: Federick Tarkang
Secretary for Organisation and Mobilisation: Odette Nchanji
Secretary for Training: Mbuh Stella
Secretary for Communication and Alerts: Ndefru Melanie
Treasurer: Paul Kemafru
Auditor: Ambe Macmillan
Advisers: Nji Ignatius, Afunwi Juliette, Victory Martial Ayafor
In her acceptance speech, President Ruth Che Wachong reaffirmed her campaign pledge to build a more inclusive and effective union.
“My mandate is built on the principles of unity, advocacy, and progress. I pledge to work tirelessly to protect and promote the interests of our members and to advocate for the rights and welfare of journalists in our region,” she stated.
Representing the National President, Marion Obam, Bakah Derick commissioned the new leaders and presented them with key documents, including the Union’s constitution and the latest edition of the CJTU Magazine.
He urged them to stay connected to national efforts and defend press freedom at all costs.
The General Assembly also served as an opportunity to acknowledge long-serving and committed members of the North West Chapter. On behalf of the National Bureau, certificates of recognition were handed to six members, including former chapter president Nji Ignatius and long-time treasurer Ambe Macmillan, for their dedication since the chapter’s inception in 2019.
The event closed with renewed enthusiasm among members and a strong message that the CJTU North West Chapter remains committed to promoting an active and ethical journalism culture in Cameroon’s conflict-hit region.
By Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Photo credits: Mbuh Stella
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