In his anniversary message, the party’s Chairman, Joshua Osih paid tribute to the structure’s founders and its many party members who he said have faced repression and hardship over the decades. He emphasized that the SDF’s journey has been defined by courage and resilience in the face of authoritarianism and political repression.
The Social Democratic Front, SDF, one of Cameroon’s oldest and most prominent opposition parties, yesterday commemorated its 35th anniversary with a message of pride, reflection, and renewed determination from its National Chairman, Joshua Osih. Founded on May 26, 1990, amid a growing wave of political liberalization in Cameroon, the SDF emerged as a bold voice for democracy and multiparty politics in a country long dominated by a single-party system. The party was established by John Fru Ndi and a small group of visionaries who dared to challenge the political status quo and advocate for political pluralism, human rights, and federalism.
In his anniversary message, Joshua Osih paid tribute to these founders and the many party members who have faced repression and hardship over the decades. He emphasized that the SDF’s journey has been defined by courage and resilience in the face of authoritarianism and political repression. “Thirty-five years ago, the SDF was born out of the courage of a few and the hopes of millions,” Osih said in a message to the militants. “In the face of tyranny, we dared to dream of liberty. Against injustice, we stood for justice.” The anniversary is not only a celebration of the SDF’s historic milestones but also a reminder of the ongoing struggle for democratic governance in Cameroon.
Osih stressed that the nation currently stands at a critical crossroads, with citizens demanding genuine and meaningful change. “As social democrats, it is our duty to lead this transformation with courage, compassion, and conviction,” he said, reaffirming the party’s commitment to a just, united, and federal Cameroon, a core principle that continues to distinguish the SDF in Cameroon’s political landscape. The SDF played a crucial role in introducing multiparty democracy to Cameroon and has been a persistent advocate for political reforms, decentralization, and respect for human rights.
Despite facing significant political challenges, including intimidation and electoral disputes, the party remains a key voice for opposition and reform. In his address, Osih also honored the martyrs of the movement and the many militants who have dedicated their lives to the cause of democracy. “To the founding fathers, to the martyrs of our movement, to every militant who has walked this long road with us, I say thank you. Your sacrifice is our foundation,” he said. Turning to Cameroon’s youth, Osih urged them to take up the mantle of democratic activism and leadership. “The future is yours to shape,” he told young Cameroonians.
Closing his message, Osih wished all members of the SDF a happy anniversary and called for continued unity and perseverance. “Long live the Social Democratic Front. Long live Cameroon.” As the party celebrates this milestone, it recommits itself to the ongoing fight for democratic progress and the realization of a Cameroon that respects diversity, human rights, and the rule of law.
