In a shift for media leadership in Northwest Region in recent years, Ruth Che Wachong has been elected as the first female president of the Cameroon Journalists’ Trade Union (CJTU) North West Chapter. This is a win that has been hailed as both daring and overdue.
Ruth Che, a communications officer at the North West Development Authority (MIDENO), a field reporter with Upfront online, an acclaimed MC, entrepreneur, and food industry player, swept to power with 100% of valid votes cast, leading a 12-member list into office during Thursday’s Elective General Assembly in Bamenda.
Of the 40 registered members, 27 met the union’s electoral code eligibility criteria. Only 19 were physically present, with three voting by proxy, yet none questioned the outcome of what observers described as a flawlessly transparent process, coordinated by the National Executive Bureau (NEB) envoys Bakah Derick and Choves Loh.
Ruth Che replaces Nji Ignatius, who served two terms after taking over from founding president Bakah Derick. In a show of solidarity, Nji pledged to support her tenure “in every way possible.”
Her election breaks new ground in a union and a region where male leadership has long been the norm. But Ruth Che is no stranger to forging paths. From media frontlines to small business floors, she brings a no-nonsense, hands-on approach to a profession under siege in conflict-ridden zones. Ruth Che now joins other previous female media leaders like Comfort Musa and Obah Rosaline who served presidents of the Cameroon Association of English Speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ)
CJTU National Vice President Bakah Derick, speaking on behalf of President Marion Obam, handed over the union’s constitution and resources to the new leaders, calling on them to “defend press freedom at all times regardless of personal interest.”
The day ended with the symbolic oath of office and honours for pioneer members, recognising their dedication since the chapter’s inception in 2019.
For many, this isn’t just a win for Ruth Che, it is a signal that the future of Cameroonian journalism may finally look, sound, and lead differently.
By Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Photo credits: Mbuh Stella
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