Senior Cameroonian lawyer and prominent human rights advocate, Barrister Felix Agbor Nkongho (popularly known as Agbor Balla), has called for urgent reforms to Cameroon’s electoral law to include journalists and media workers on the list of emergency personnel allowed to vote irrespective of their location on election day.
Speaking during an in-depth exchange in Bamenda while responding to question by Hilltopvoices, Barrister Agbor Balla expressed concern that, under current legislation, journalists covering elections across the country are effectively disenfranchised because they are unable to vote outside their designated polling stations.
Media professionals with Barrister Felix Agbor Balla in Bamenda
“It would be a good idea that a journalist who lives in Bamenda and goes to monitor the elections in Kumbo, for instance, should be able to vote there. That’s what happens with the military. Why can’t the same principle apply to the press?” he said
The Cameroonian electoral code currently grants flexibility to security and defence forces, allowing them to vote where they are deployed during elections. However, there is no such provision for journalists and related media workers who, like emergency responders, play a vital role in ensuring transparency and accountability during the electoral process.
“This is just one of many reforms we expect. The laws and institutions in this country were tailor-made for one man who is President Biya. They are not sustainable. What Cameroon needs are strong institutions, not strong individuals.” the barrister stressed.
Agbor Balla’s comments reflect growing concerns about the marginalisation of the press within Cameroon’s democratic framework. As the country prepares for the 2025 elections, media organisations, particularly those based in the conflict-hit North West and South West Regions, face serious logistical and security challenges. Many reporters must travel between towns and regions to cover the elections, often sacrificing their right to vote in the process.
Beyond the issue of voting rights for journalists, Agbor Balla underlined the urgent need for broader electoral and constitutional reforms. He warned that Cameroon cannot move forward under a system that centralises power so heavily in the presidency, calling for “a third Republic” marked by fairness, transparency, and inclusive governance.
“The way the system is currently designed, it’s a suit that was sewn specifically for Mr Biya. We need to redesign it so that it fits the nation not just the man.”
Responding to questions about separatist opposition to elections in the Anglophone regions, Barrister Balla revealed that a leadership summit held earlier this year in South Africa reached a consensus that those against elections should not obstruct the process.
“Let those who support elections go ahead. If you are not for it, be indifferent but do not stand in the way.” he said
He observed a gradual shift in attitude among separatists, from outright opposition to electoral participation, to at least a neutral stance.
“Some of those who boycotted in 2018 now support elections. It is a sign that awareness-raising efforts by civil society, the churches and the media are making an impact.” he observed
Nonetheless, he urged caution: “We must follow the Do No Harm principle. There are still areas that are unsafe. No one should put themselves in danger.”
Barrister Agbor Balla speaking with media professionals in Bamenda
When asked by Hilltopvoices whether he would lead a proposed Anglophone strategic group to map out future leadership and political direction, Balla declined to focus on personalities.
“Let us not get stuck in the debate about who should lead. Leadership will emerge. What matters now is building a structure that thinks and plans for us. One that can engage future national leadership, explain our agenda, and push for necessary reforms.” he explained
As the 2025 elections approach, Barrister Agbor Balla’s believes that for Cameroon’s democracy to mature, its electoral laws must evolve. Recognising the media as critical players on Election Day is an essential part of that transformation.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
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