Peace Is Priceless, Violence Not Appropriate Response To Conflict – Rev. Dr. Libom Li Likeng

Rev. Dr. Libom Li Likeng (M) addressing the media on the importance of peace

By Nformi Sonde Kinsai

The President of the Cameroon National Prayer Breakfast, CNPB; Rev. Dr. Jean Libom Li Likeng, has emphasised that peace is priceless and being the most precious common commodity; no political project, personal ambition or partisan issue can justify compromising it.

Aware of the tragedies and devastation that can result from the absence of peace, or its breakdown, the CNPB is convinced that violence has never been an appropriate response to conflict,” Rev. Libom Li Likeng stated.

He was addressing the media on August 11, 2025, at the Care and Hope Centre – the Registered Office of the CNPB, situated at Nkoulou, Yaounde. The occasion was the 4^th edition of the CNPB Press Breakfast launched during celebrations marking the 51^st National Day.

The Secretary General, Denis Endengué Nkié, presented the CNPB and its action plan, while the Vice President, Elise Bomba Atangana, moderated the event.

Rev. Libom Li Likeng said such occasions give the CNPB the opportunity to inform public opinion on current issues of major interest that require the association to take a position, make major statements, give room for exchanges that allow members to express themselves on issues of concern to the Christian elite.

He recalled that CNPB’s vision is to contribute to Cameroon’s development in all respects, through the action of God and the quality of its leaders in all sectors and at all levels within the nation. “We are convinced that development is spiritual above all else, and should be reflected in all areas of our country’s life. This is why we believe it is essential to invoke the power of God through prayer to help Cameroon’s emergence,” he said.

Harping on the forthcoming October 12 presidential election, he said it is a time when passions can run high, sometimes leading to violent conflict. He observed that the socio-political situation of the country ahead of the election is marked by high levels of tension and growing apprehension. He said while President Paul Biya is seeking re-election, the opposition is looking for a ‘consensus candidate.’

“Opposition parties and human rights organisations are denouncing obstacles to public debate and freedom of expression, as well as the government’s attempts to control the electoral process. Ethnic divisions continue to influence the political landscape and are likely to exacerbate tensions. Similarly, economic and social problems such as unemployment, poverty and inequality are fuelling discontent and frustration among the population.

“Persistent security issues in the English-speaking regions and the far North, coupled with the ethnic divisions currently plaguing the country, further exacerbate the situation, undermining national unity, living together, and above all, peace,” Libom Li Likeng stated.

He said Cameroon finds itself in a complex and tense political situation, with serious threats to peace. He talked of what advocates have been doing to sustain peace in Cameroon. “The CNPB is therefore delighted that peace is a matter of concern for everyone, and it presents itself as the minimum common programme for all those involved in the upcoming electoral competition, regardless of their partisan affiliation. Peace is a precious commodity, and without it, social harmony is disrupted and development is compromised,” he maintained.

Urging citizens to preserve peace in the country before, during and after the October 12 election, Rev. Dr. Libom Li Likeng, however, emphasised that peace rests on several pillars, notably justice, respect for the dignity of each individual, respect for human rights, and the pursuit and promotion of the common good.

The CNPB therefore calls for the prevention of violence in all its forms; promotion of dialogue, respect for human rights, transparent and credible elections; commitment of all actors, enhancement of citizen awareness and education, and maintaining public order.

Appealing for peace, responsibility and maturity, the CNPB cautions that “elections should never be a time for division, hatred or violence. On the contrary, they should be an expression of the sovereign people’s will that is free, peaceful and respectful. Diversity of opinion enriches our democracy and must never be used as an excuse for violent clashes or discord,” it holds.

Rev. Dr. Libom Li Likeng urged the media, civil society organisations, and religious and traditional leaders to play their role as guardians of social peace by promoting truth, restraint and dialogue. On the other hand, he called on institutions in charge of the electoral process to guarantee transparency, fairness and strict compliance with the laws of the Republic, so that every citizen can be sure that their vote counts and that the choice of the people is respected.

Reiterating that the call for collective responsibility, tolerance, and respect for democratic principles is a leeway for peaceful and credible elections, the CNPB says the socio-political tensions in the country ahead of the election is clear evidence of man’s actions, and above all a refusal to respect God’s commandments  – without whom we cannot build a peaceful Cameroon.