DO makes historic appearance at SDF anniversary in Bamenda III

The Divisional Officer for Bamenda III Subdivision, Ayuni Austin Sakah, on Tuesday attended celebrations marking the 36th anniversary of the Social Democratic Front in Bamenda III Electoral District, in what many described as a historic moment for political activity in Bamenda.

SDF Vanguards during the march 

The event, which attracted militants, sympathisers and community members from across the subdivision, began with a public march from Mile II through parts of the town to the main celebration ground in Ntaghem. Party supporters dressed in SDF colours sang mobilisation songs while wards marched behind banners and dance groups in a show of renewed political visibility.

The anniversary celebration featured speeches from party officials and grassroots leaders, cultural performances by community groups and a notable display by the SDF security wing known as the Vanguard, whose coordinated appearance drew loud applause from militants gathered at the venue.

Vanguards marching at the event ground 

The presence of the Divisional Officer quickly became one of the most discussed moments of the event. Though regulations governing public manifestations allow administrative authorities to attend or send representatives to authorised gatherings, such participation has rarely been visible in Bamenda, particularly at opposition political events.

Administrative authorities in the city have historically been perceived as maintaining distance from opposition activities, especially during periods of heightened political tension. For many militants, the attendance of Ayuni Austin Sakah therefore carried strong symbolic significance.

Since his appointment to Bamenda III, the DO has built a reputation for what residents describe as a people centred style of administration, marked by accessibility and community engagement.

The anniversary came days after a rare large scale appearance by SDF supporters at Bamenda Commercial Avenue during the May 20 National Day celebrations, an outing party officials described as part of an "Operation Take Back Bamenda" campaign aimed at rebuilding political mobilisation in the city.

Regional Chairperson and Mayor of Bamenda III Council Fongu Cletus Tanwe praised both the turnout and the attendance of the administrative authority.

"Today sends a powerful message that civic engagement and political participation remain alive in Bamenda," Fongu said.

He described the DO's attendance as an act of openness and institutional maturity.

"When public officials stand close to the people without fear or division, democracy grows stronger. The Divisional Officer has shown leadership through presence."

The mayor also praised militants and supporters who participated in the march and anniversary activities.

Militants performing during anniverssary 

"Our militants have demonstrated discipline, loyalty and commitment. From Mile II to Ntaghem, the people answered present and proved again that the SDF remains rooted in the hearts of the population."

Addressing the broader political message of the gathering, Fongu urged supporters to sustain the momentum beyond anniversary celebrations.

"The crowds we saw today must become organisation in the neighbourhoods, mobilisation in the communities and participation during elections. The work continues."

The anniversary celebration took place in a festive atmosphere with songs, chants and community performances continuing late into the day, reinforcing party supporters described as a renewed determination to restore the public political presence of the SDF in Bamenda.

By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Web

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