Mezam Division is one of the divisions that has experienced a series of kidnappings and other security challenges. Speaking on behalf of Traditional Rulers in Mezam The Fon of Mankon, Fo' Fru Asah IV confirmed to the Prime Minister Head of Government, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute that traditional rulers in Mezam are doing their best to promote peace and restore stability in communities.
The Fon of Mankon explained that cultural events and sporting activities have been organized and that during these events, didatic materials are distributed to children, encouraging them to return to school.
"We use these gatherings to convey important messages to our people, particularly messages of peace, reconciliation, and unconditional forgiveness", Fon of Mankon speaking within the framework of the Community Dialogue.
"We are pleased that the State has embraced the principle of unconditional forgiveness for fighters who are willing to lay down their arms. We have witnessed some fighters surrendering their weapons, and this gives us hope. As traditional rulers of Mezam, we are beginning to witness signs of peace, which is one of the reasons we are able to hold this successful meeting today".
According to the Fon of Mankon, speaking on behalf of the fons in Mezam, Mezam is also facing a number of boundary disputes between villages.
"Whenever these disputes are brought before the administration, efforts are made to resolve them amicably. However, the process sometimes takes too long, and some of these disputes have resulted in the loss of lives".
He made an appeal on behalf of all Fons of Mezam that the administration should intensify its efforts to resolve boundary disputes between villages in a timely and peaceful manner.
"Traditional rulers of Mezam stand firmly behind the administration and remain committed to supporting its efforts to restore peace".
On the aspect of education, the Fon of Mankon revealed that some primary schools are gradually resuming normal activities. However, during the last transfer of teachers, several teachers were transferred from schools that had only recently resumed operations. Enrolment increased in many of these schools this academic year, leaving them with a serious shortage of teachers.
"We therefore appeal to you, Your Excellency, to look into this matter when you return to your office and ensure that the concerns of our head teachers are brought to the attention of the relevant higher authorities. We believe that addressing this shortage will help our schools function more effectively and encourage more children to return to school".
"Shouldering a considerable burden as internally displaced persons (IDPs) continue to seek refuge in our homes and communities", the Fon of Mankon pleased that traditional rulers be empowered to accompany these diaplaced persons in their needs.
"We appeal for greater assistance to help us continue supporting these vulnerable members of our communities".
Furthermore, traditional rulers in Mezam have engaged in dialogue with their people as explained by the Fon of Mankon and that dialogue has always been part of tradition and culture.
"We believe in constantly engaging with our people, listening to their concerns, and seeking peaceful solutions to their problems".
"However, we have observed that when we engage in dialogue with individuals whose intentions may not be fully known to us, we are sometimes suspected by the administration of siding with the other party".
The plea of sons and daughters of Mezam taking part in competitive examinations organized by the State was also raised. Traditional rulers continue to plead that sons and daughters of Mezam be proritized in this process so they can have equal opportunities to succeed.
Traditional rulers of Mezam have emphasized that their engagement in community dialogue is intended to promote peace and reconciliation.
They appeal that traditional rulers be allowed to carry out this responsibility without undue suspicion. Dialogue should be inclusive, and everyone should be given an opportunity to express their views and be heard.