The Fako Lawyers Association (FAKLA) has officially endorsed renowned human rights advocate, Barrister Edward Lyonga Ewule, as its candidate for the position of Vice President of the General Assembly of the Cameroon Bar Association. This significant endorsement took place during an extraordinary meeting held in Buea on Saturday, March 29, 2025, where over 500 lawyers from the Fako Division convened to express their unanimous support.
FAKLA’s Leadership and Endorsement
Under the historic leadership of its first female president, Barrister Nouvelliza Etta-Besong Njiminoh, FAKLA has demonstrated a progressive approach in its decision-making processes. President Etta-Besong lauded Barrister Ewule’s exemplary contributions to the legal profession, stating, “We are throwing our weight behind you because you have proven to be a reliable and professional lawyer over the years. We are confident that with you at the helm of that position, FAKLA’s interests will be reflected in the policies and decisions taken at the General Assembly.”
Support from the Bar Council
Echoing this sentiment, Bar Council member and FAKLA member, Barrister Ebah Ntoko Justice, emphasised the need for dynamic leadership within the Bar General Assembly. He remarked, “He’s very dynamic and professional. He shall make a good representation at the General Assembly. Endorsing him as Vice President is the best decision for the Bar General Assembly. I call on lawyers from the other parts of the country to rally behind Barrister Ewule for this position.”
Barrister Ewule’s Credentials and Vision
Barrister Edward Lyonga Ewule, Principal Partner of Legend Law Offices in Buea and founder of the Legend Human Rights Foundation, has over a decade of experience in strategic litigation, particularly in defending the oppressed and marginalised in Cameroon. His dedication to upholding the rights of women and girls is deeply rooted in his personal upbringing by a single mother, who was a notable community mobilizer.
Throughout his career, Barrister Ewule has held several key positions within the Cameroon Bar Association, including serving as Protocol Officer for two Bar Presidents, the late Batonnier Tchakounte Charles and the current Batonnier Mbah Eric Mbah. He is also a member of the Human Rights Committee and President of the Subcommittee on Persons Living with Disabilities. In January 2023, he was appointed as the liaison between the Bar and the Military Court in the Southwest Region.
Expressing his gratitude for FAKLA’s endorsement, Barrister Ewule stated, “I am grateful to my peers for endorsing me. It gives me immense motivation to continue making great inroads in the legal profession. I shall not let them down; in fact, I shall continue to work hard like I always do to make sure decisions taken at the General Assembly reflect the interests of the lawyers and the population we serve.”
Recognition and Awards
Barrister Ewule’s unwavering commitment to justice has earned him multiple accolades, including the prestigious Human Rights Lawyer of the Year award from the Victoria International Media Merits Award (VIMMA) in August 2024. The award committee highlighted his tireless advocacy and resource mobilisation for the underprivileged, noting that these efforts distinguished him from his peers.
Statements from Legal Luminaries
Senior legal practitioners have also voiced their support for Barrister Ewule’s candidacy. Barrister Emmanuel Nkea, a respected figure within the legal community, remarked, “Edward’s dedication to human rights and his dynamic approach to legal advocacy make him an ideal candidate for the Vice Presidency. His leadership will undoubtedly bring positive change to the Bar.”
Similarly, the Bar Representative to the Southwest Region, Barrister Enow Benjamin, stated, “Barrister Ewule’s track record speaks volumes. His commitment to the rule of law and his proactive stance on issues affecting the legal profession are commendable. I fully support his candidacy.”
Cameroon Bar Association Elections
The Cameroon Bar Association, the governing body for legal practitioners in the country, comprises various leadership positions, including the President of the General Assembly, the Batonnier (Bar President), Vice Presidents, and members of the Bar Council. These positions are pivotal in shaping the policies and direction of the legal profession in Cameroon.
The upcoming Bar elections, scheduled for June 7, 2025, are anticipated to be a defining moment for the association. With FAKLA’s robust endorsement, Barrister Edward Lyonga Ewule emerges as a formidable candidate poised to contribute significantly to the advancement of the legal profession in Cameroon.