"We will surely take back the Region": Tubah SDF Chairman draws strength from Fru Ndi's legacy

The Chairman of the Social Democratic Front (SDF) Electoral District for Tubah, Tabah Peter, has expressed confidence that the party can regain its political influence in the North West Region, drawing inspiration from the legacy of its late founder, Ni John Fru Ndi.

Speaking during activities marking the third anniversary thanksgiving service in memory of Fru Ndi in Bamenda, Tabah said the occasion was both emotional and motivating, reminding party militants of the values that shaped one of Cameroon's most influential opposition leaders.

"I feel elated to be here today because he left a legacy, He is a man we have to remember throughout our lives. He did a lot for us individually and for society as a whole." Tabah said. 

The thanksgiving service, jointly organised by the Fru Ndi family and the SDF, brought together party leaders, supporters, family members, clergy and well-wishers at the Presbyterian Church Musang in Bamenda to honour the life and contributions of the man widely regarded as the father of multiparty democracy in Cameroon.

For Tabah, returning to the late chairman's residence revived memories of a leader whose presence once defined every gathering.

"What I missed today was his physical presence. But the spirit is still there." he noted

According to him, the warmth and sense of belonging associated with visits to Fru Ndi's home continue to endure even after his passing.

"The reception I used to have, I still have it. It may not measure up, but the spirit is still there."

Like many SDF militants interviewed during the anniversary activities, Tabah agreed that Fru Ndi left behind a generation of leaders inspired by his example.

Asked whether he considered himself one of the many political heirs of the late chairman, he responded positively.

"If being one of the representatives he created is what is meant, then why should I deny it?" he said.

He added that the political crisis that has affected the North West and South West regions may have slowed the growth of the movement Fru Ndi built, but not its spirit.

Reflecting on the lessons he learned from the opposition icon, Tabah highlighted resilience, patience, peace and wisdom as qualities that continue to guide his political engagement.

"I learned resilience. I learned peace. I learned patience. He had wisdom and he was open to everybody. He loved everybody." he said

Tabah Peter during thanksgiving service 

The Tubah district chairman acknowledged that the SDF has faced significant challenges in recent years, particularly as a result of the ongoing crisis in the region. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about the party's future.

"The crisis caused a lot of damage," he said adding "but with the strength that we are coming back with, we will surely take back the region."

His comments echoed a growing sense of determination among party officials gathered for the anniversary, many of whom described the return of major SDF activities to Bamenda as a sign of renewed mobilisation ahead of future political contests.

As the party commemorates three years since the passing of its founding chairman, Tabah Peter believes the most fitting tribute to Fru Ndi is not merely remembering him, but applying the values he lived by.

For him, the path forward lies in resilience, unity and the conviction that the movement John Fru Ndi built still has unfinished work to do.

By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Web

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