We are not politicians and cannot afford to be partisan, say Cameroon’s Bishops

The Catholic Bishops of Cameroon are holding their 49th annual seminar in Kumba, in the Southwest Region, from 3 January to 10 January 2026. Under the theme “Communion and Collegiality,” this gathering brings together the entire Cameroonian episcopate for spiritual and pastoral exchanges in a context marked by socio-economic challenges in the country and the Crisis in the Anglophone regions.

Paul-Valérie Mendogo - Douala

The faithful in Kumba warmly welcomed the Bishops to this city located in the Anglophone part of Cameroon, in the Southwest Region. The Bishops were met by the faithful who lined the streets leading to the meeting place, a heavy downpour notwithstanding.

Among Cameroonians, expectations are high: “to see the Bishops heal the wounds of the people, strengthen dialogue, promote unity, revive faith, and reaffirm the Church’s commitment to the common good.”

Some of the faithful

We are shepherds for all

Presiding over the solemn Epiphany Mass at the Sacré-Cœur Cathedral of Fiango, in the presence of administrative and traditional authorities, Kumba Diocese Bishop Agapitus Nfon reiterated the essential mission of Bishops: “to bring the people of God closer.”

Asked about the impact of the seminar in the national sociopolitical context, especially after the upheavals related to the last presidential election, the Bishop of Kumba emphasised that the Catholic Church in Cameroon has never been silent. Through their prophetic words, the Bishops continue to light the way toward peace, prosperity, and holistic development.

“We are not politicians. We, Bishops, speak as shepherds and prophets. No Bishop will tell you who to vote for. During election periods, we provide criteria and guidance to help people choose the right leader. We call attention to consciences so that citizens can make the right choice. Therefore, we cannot afford to be partisan, because as shepherds, we have faithful who belong to different political parties. We are here to guide them all, and that’s it!”

A troubled region

The Diocese of Kumba was established under Pope Francis’ pontificate on 15 March 2016 by carving out parts of the Diocese of Buea. This year, it celebrates its 10th anniversary.

For many residents interviewed, the presence of the Bishops in the city already symbolises a message of hope and closeness, in a context marked by challenges of peace, unity, and development.

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