In a highly symbolic moment during the security meeting today, 3 October 2025, between the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, and divisional authorities, he led the distribution of humanitarian aid to 500 individuals drawn from the seven divisions of the North West Region. The event, which took place at the Senior Divisional Officer’s office in Bamenda, has been largely described as part of the broader campaign activities ahead of the October 12 presidential elections. Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) campaign rallies have continued to take place in Bamenda despite the ongoing ghost town in the region. The security meeting was aimed at assessing preparations for the upcoming presidential election. He was received by Governor Adolphe Lele L’Afrique and other senior officials.
Representing the Presidential couple, Minister Atanga Nji handed out bags of rice, blankets, and other essential supplies to beneficiaries, many of whom have been affected by the ongoing socio-political crisis in the region. He was joined by a high-level delegation including the Governor of the North West Region, Adolphe Lele L’Afrique; the Mayor of Bamenda, Paul Achobong Tembeng; the President of the Regional Council, Fru Fobuzshi Angwafo III; and other senior officials. The distribution was coordinated by Nchofon Mingoh, Head of the Humanitarian Assistance Plan for the North West Region.
The gesture was framed as a demonstration of the Head of State’s commitment to peace, stability, and national solidarity. Minister Atanga Nji emphasized that the CPDM campaign is not only about political messaging but also about responding to the urgent needs of citizens. “This is a message of hope from the Presidential couple,” he stated, “a reminder that no Cameroonian will be left behind.”
While the rally served to galvanize support for the CPDM and its candidate, President Paul Biya, it also highlighted the intersection of humanitarian outreach and political mobilization. For many residents of Bamenda, the aid was a welcome relief amid economic hardship and insecurity.
As the campaign trail continues across the North West Region, the CPDM is positioning itself because it has security by its side. The distribution of aid in Bamenda underscores the party’s strategy of combining political engagement with direct support to communities to influence political participation.
Whether this blend of humanitarian assistance and campaign visibility will translate into electoral gains remains to be seen.
