NCPBM Strengthens Fight Against Hate Speech and Xenophobia Ahead of 2025 Elections

In a proactive move to combat hate speech and xenophobia as part of its action plan for the 2025 financial year, the Secretary General of the National Commission for the Promotion of Bilingualism and Multiculturalism (NCPBM), Dr Chi Asafor Cornelius, recently led a delegation from Yaoundé to Bamenda. The visit aimed to evaluate the collaboration with civil society organizations in the Northwest region, particularly focusing on their efforts to address these pressing issues.

During the visit, Dr Chi Asafor met with leaders from *Defyhatenow, headed by Dr. Ngala Desmond, and **CAMASEJ Bamenda*, led by President Sah Terence Animbom. The NCPBM is keen on intensifying the fight against hate speech and xenophobia, especially in light of the upcoming presidential elections in 2025.

"As we approach the electoral year, it is essential to strengthen our partnerships with civil society organizations like Defyhatenow and CAMASEJ," Asafor stated. "These organizations were carefully selected for their ability to engage with grassroots communities and help mitigate the impact of hate speech and Xenophobia in the Northwest region."

This collaboration is not new; the NCPBM has previously partnered with Defyhatenow and CAMASEJ. Dr Chi Asafor emphasized the importance of these organizations in addressing the anticipated rise in hate speech during the electoral period. "We have come to listen and support them, ensuring they have the resources needed to effectively carry out their activities in 2025," he noted.

The meeting took place at the conference room of the NCPBM's Northwest Regional branch, where anti-hate speech materials were distributed to both organizations. 

In his address to the people of the Northwest region, Asafor urged the community to reject hate speech and xenophobia, stating, "These attitudes are detrimental to our national harmony and peace. We have faced challenges for over eight years; it's time to restore the peaceful Northwest we once knew."

The NCPBM, established four years ago, continues its mandate to promote a multicultural and bilingual society while fostering unity among all citizens.