Economist Eugène Nyambal has recently criticized a governance system in Cameroon that he describes as an « Equilateral Triangle, » an informal arrangement that he says marginalizes entire regions of the country. This critique comes amid ongoing debates about constitutional reform.
Nyambal observes that since 1982, strategic positions in the State and the Cameroonian economy have been mainly held by people from the South, Center, and East regions, followed by those from the West. He questions the equal opportunities for citizens from other regions, including the Grand Littoral, South-West, and North-West. The concept of the « Equilateral Triangle, » theorized by the late Professor Gabriel Nlep, refers to this power-sharing arrangement between the Grand Nord, the Ékangs, and the Grassfields, de facto excluding other populations.
Nyambal compares this situation to racism, stressing that inequalities based on tribal, linguistic, or religious origin are fundamentally similar to racial discrimination. He questions the future prospects for a child born in Douala, Eseka, or Foumban compared to those from the dominant regions, thus questioning the republican pact.
According to Nyambal, this governance system is based on reserving key positions for nationals from the dominant blocs, while minority groups are relegated to secondary roles. He rejects the idea of quotas to correct these inequalities, instead advocating a profound reform of governance that would give more power and resources to regions and cities, thus creating opportunities for all Cameroonians.
Nyambal warns that this ethnic governance weakens national cohesion and could lead to Cameroon's implosion within three to five years if nothing changes. He calls on marginalized groups to adopt collective strategies to influence the management of the country, stressing that meritocracy, like the diversity of talent within the Indomitable Lions, should be the foundation for the distribution of responsibilities. The ongoing constitutional reform offers an opportunity for change, but the political will of the dominant blocs remains a determining factor. The economist, who has served as a consultant at the World Bank and the IMF, insists that Cameroon must choose between an inclusive and a federal model to ensure its future.
