Union blends continuity and renewal as delegates endorse leadership and set reform path
Delegates of the Cameroon Journalists’ Trade Union have renewed the mandate of Marion Obam as National President while ushering new members into the leadership, a move that defined the outcomes of the 6th Elective General Assembly held in Bafoussam from 27 to 28 February 2026.
Obam secured a second three year term after her list, the only one in contention, was endorsed by acclamation by delegates representing the union’s ten regional chapters. The vote reflects confidence in a leadership credited with consolidating the organisation and positioning it to tackle emerging professional challenges.
In her outlook for the new mandate, Obam highlighted priorities including progress on the collective agreement, navigating the implications of artificial intelligence in journalism, strengthening gender and inclusion policies, and improving support for journalists living with disabilities. She also pointed to ongoing collaboration with the International Federation of Journalists, IFJ on the Media Cameroun Plus project aimed at establishing a national Council for Ethics and Journalistic Deontology within the year.
The new executive reflects a balance between continuity and renewal. Maintained from the 2022 team are Elise Kenimbeni as Vice President for Gender, Bakah Derick as Vice President for International Relations, Hilaire Hamekoue as Secretary General, Jean Areguema heading Litigation and Judicial Affairs, and Loris Clet Adiang as Secretary for Communication and Alerts. Choves Loh and Dewa Aboubakar continue as advisers. New entrants include Sylvia Waindim as Secretary for Training and René Mbondjeu as National Treasurer, alongside two additional members expected to reinforce programme delivery.
The assembly, convened under the theme “Building on firm achievements for the next phase of union action.” Proceedings were chaired by Luc Ouandji representing the Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Cameroon, while an inaugural lecture by Denis Nkwebo explored the evolving landscape of unionism and media law.
Messages of support from Anthony Bellanger and Omar Faruk Osman reinforced international solidarity, and the gathering also featured the union’s first awards ceremony on the eve of deliberations.
With a renewed presidency and fresh energy within its executive, the union emerges from Bafoussam with a reinforced mandate to deepen reforms, strengthen protections and sharpen its voice in defending the profession.
By Hilltopvoices Web Team
Tel: +237 694 71 85 77
