Three words and an entire system trembles. In diplomatic language, that simple phrase means only one thing: serious doubts.
Silence as a Political Weapon
The UN’s silence echoes like thunder through Yaoundé.
While some still dance and wave flags in celebration, the world’s “neutral” organization has chosen to raise an eyebrow, and that gesture alone speaks volumes.
But let’s ask the obvious question:
Who gave the UN the authority to bless or condemn the elections of a sovereign state? Since when does a statement from New York define the legitimacy of African ballots? Once again, Africa finds itself on stage in a global play of double standards, sovereign enough to be exploited, but never sovereign sufficient to be respected.
When the Temple of Law Becomes the Court of Nations
The UN, once a sanctuary of global diplomacy, now resembles a courtroom where some nations act as judges and others as permanent defendants.
Cameroun may not be a model of democracy, but since when is democracy certified by a press release? When did freedom start depending on who receives congratulations from the West? This “taking note” is nothing less than a note of disdain, written in the cold ink of paternalism.
Satire of a Two-Speed World
Let’s flip the scenario for a moment: What if the African Union stated after a U.S. election, saying
“We take note of the results and hope democracy will one day be fully inclusive.”
The West would cry foul. But when the UN adopts that same tone toward Africa, it’s hailed as “responsible diplomacy.” Ah, yes, the selective morality of the powerful!
The Lesson Behind the Irony
This satire isn’t a defense of a man, it’s a defense of a principle: true sovereignty.
Because if the UN can “take note” of who governs in Africa today, tomorrow it will “take note” of our economic choices, our military alliances, and our cultural identities. And one day, it might even start “taking note” of our silences.
The Right to Self-Determination or the Duty to Be Noted?
The real issue is not Paul Biy, but it’s the principle. How far can an international organization go before it becomes a political instrument rather than a neutral referee? Should Africa continue to bow at every diplomatic snub, or finally stand up and say:
“Thank you, but keep your notes. We grade our own sovereignty.”
