Former Prime Minister Simon Achidi Achu was Saturday 3 June 2021 posthumously decorated and raised to the rank of Grand Cordon of the Cameroon Order of Merit. The state recognition was placed on the casket by Prime Minister, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute who represented the Head of State.
The act has been described by Cameroonians as government’s own way of scratching the back of the fallen political icon who spent all his life to contributing to nation building, unity and peace.
This was during an official funeral accord the fallen statesman by the president Paul Biya at his native Santa in the North West region. The funeral brought hundreds of state personalities, his former colleagues, friends and those he mentored on several fronts.
The condolence message of the President was read at the funeral by the Governor of the North West region and eulogies of the ruling CPDM party read by the regional coordinator, H.E. Philemon Yang. The family representative, Jude Tetan Achu appreciated all and sundry for turning out massively to bid final farewell to the man who touched the lives of all who came across him through philanthropic actions.
Prior to the burial in Santa, state homage was paid to Achidi Achu by Cameroonians at the Yaounde multipurpose sports complex during which a college of clergy prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the former PM and called on others to emulate his example to live a live worth celebrating by sharing to the needy, being God-fearing and humble like the deceased.
In his tribute to his former boss, former Minister Remy Ze Meka, who served as Secretary at the PM’s office during Achidi’s reign described him as a visionary and pragmatic political figure, astute civil servant, talented politician, a man who loved to be in the field and one who gave so much to his country. He told mourners that Pa Achidi had nice heart and advised and encouraged all and sundry to ensure to share to the needy.
The President of Bali Old Boys Association, BOBA, Yaounde chapter, Dr. Duda Titanji, the association will forever missed one who they described as the Atlas of CPC Bali. He said Pa Achidi was always consulted for details of the school as he witnessed all its transition. Titanji said Pa lived up to expectations at all times and contributed to all the activities of BOBA.
Minister Gregoire Owona on his part described Pa Achidi as a lovely person. He recounted how he and Pa Achidi met in 1988 when he took his kids for vacation in Bamenda and got impressed by his works before they met again in parliament as MPs. He said no word can describe the kind of relationship he had with Pa Achidi who he said was a model, and an inspiration to many generations. He saluted his humility, generosity towards all.
Former Minister Joseph Owona said Pa Achidi was faithful to his party, his country, loyal to his President while discharging state duties. He said the country cries for a legendary politician and a senior statesman a friend, and friend to his children. Tributes were also paid to the former Senate Vice President by his colleagues at the Yaounde Conference Centre. He colleagues took turns to share great times they spent together and his huge contribution to nation-building.
By Doh Bertrand Nua
No comments:
Post a Comment