Post-electoral crisis: Women call for justice and non-violence.

Following the proclamation of results of the October 12 presidential election, the country has witnessed a surge in violence, displacement and general unrest in several regions — prompting renewed appeals for dialogue, restraint and national reconciliation.

Speaking to The Guardian Post in Douala on Thursday, October 30, SNWOT General Coordinator, Clotilda Andiensa Waah, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation, describing the violence as a major setback for peace and stability.

“Women are mourning the loss of loved ones and enduring renewed displacement within their host communities. Many are grappling with trauma, loss of livelihood and uncertainty about the future,” she lamented.

Waah underscored that women have continued to bear the brunt of the ongoing unrest, especially those from the North West and South West regions who have repeatedly faced displacement.

She said SNWOT has remained steadfast in its peace advocacy, organising several initiatives to promote dialogue and reconciliation, while urging mothers to keep their children away from street protests that could lead to further destruction.

“Our call for peace is not an attempt to silence legitimate grievances or ignore human rights violations,” she clarified, adding that “but a plea for a new approach that values dialogue over violence”. 

SNWOT reiterated its firm condemnation of all forms of violence — structural, systemic and direct — stressing that each act leaves behind lasting grief and trauma in communities.

The coalition has therefore appealed to government authorities to take urgent measures to address citizens’ concerns, protect human life, and create an environment conducive for peace and justice to prevail.

“Violence has never solved Cameroon’s political problems,” SNWOT stated, adding that “it is time to seek a path of justice, dialogue and national healing”. 

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3615 of Tuesday November 04, 2025