Prominent Cameroonian lawyer and former Bar Association President, Akere Muna, has called on his colleagues to engage in constructive dialogue and resist attempts to divide the legal profession along linguistic lines, as the Bar prepares for its upcoming elections.
In a heartfelt statement issued on July 14 in Yaoundé, Muna addressed recent controversy following a breakfast meeting he hosted with members of the legal community.
The gathering, he explained, was a traditional English breakfast—a practice he introduced during his tenure—to encourage unity and collegiality within the Bar. Attendees included the outgoing Bar President, as well as presidential candidates from both Anglophone and Francophone backgrounds: Barristers Noutchogouin, Tamo Benzo, and Dr. Eno Benjamin.
“Unfortunately, I have been informed that some lawyers are misinterpreting my words and intentions, suggesting that I am calling on English speakers to vote exclusively for English-speaking candidates.
This accusation is not only unfounded, but deeply discouraging,” Muna stated.
Emphasizing his commitment to a unified Bar, Muna recalled his involvement in founding the Rainbow Coalition—a balanced alliance that led to the election of six Bar Presidents over time, equally split between Francophones and Anglophones.
“This coalition exemplifies the strength that comes from our diversity and unity,” he said.
He expressed concern over what he described as a “troubling decline in integrity and moral standards” within the legal profession, echoing broader national challenges. “As lawyers, we are the last bastion of hope for justice and truth.
If we indulge in division and discord, we must prepare for a bleak future,” he warned.
Despite being the subject of rumors and accusations, Muna said his true concern was for the erosion of the values that have long underpinned the profession.
“Let us unite in our purpose and reaffirm our commitment to the principles of justice, integrity, and unity that define our profession.”
In closing, Muna called on all members of the Bar to uphold the spirit of constructive engagement. “Together, we can ensure that our Bar remains a beacon of hope and a model of integrity in our society.”
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