|
MINISTER DELEGATE TO THE MINISTER OF TERRITORIAL ADMINISTRATION AND DECENTRALISATION IN CHARGE REGIONAL AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES ON THE INCIDENTS THAT TOOK PLACE IN ABONG-MBANG ON 17 SEPTEMBER The Minister of Communication,
Members of government,
Dear journalists,
Ladies and Gentlemen, In accordance with the firm instructions of the Prime Minister, Head of Government, we invited the press today so that, through it, the national and international community can be informed about the incidents that took place in Abong-Mbang, head quarter of Upper Nyong Division, East Province, on 17 September 2007.
As a matter of fact, according to early information at our disposal, the people of Abong-Mbang massively took to the streets to express their discontent following a prolonged period of electrical energy cuts.
This protest unfortunately degenerated into a confrontation with the forces of law and order. As at today, the toll stands at two deaths and ten wounded. In addition to these human casualties was the burning of the Abong-Mbang Divisional Office and the residence of the Senior Divisional Officer for Upper Nyong, as well as the burning of some property belonging to workers of the police corps.
The Head of State, who is personally monitoring these events, has asked us to extend his heartfelt condolences to the grief-stricken families and the entire population of Abong-Mbang.
While deploring the loss of lives and the significant material damages recorded, the Government has already taken a number of measures aimed at restoring, not only peace and security in Abong-Mbang, but also the smooth functioning of government services in the area. At this moment, as I talk to you, I can say that calm has effectively returned to the town of Abong-Mbang.
|
