The journalist’s response addresses comments made by Owona Nguini, vice-rector of the University of Yaoundé II, on national television.

In a bold rebuttal, Georges Dougueli argues that speculation about public figures’ health is part of journalistic practice. He emphasizes that responsible journalism often involves anticipating significant political transitions, including the preparation of posthumous tributes for leaders still in office.

Drawing parallels with historical figures like former French President François Mitterrand, who famously referred to journalists as “dogs,” Dougueli stresses that all political leaders must endure such scrutiny. He questions whether the criticism is directed at him personally or reflects a broader pattern of political rhetoric.

Dougueli then dissects Owona Nguini’s arguments, particularly the controversial “Ekang” concept—a term rooted in the Mvett mythology that Nguini has repurposed to imply political supremacy for certain ethnic groups. The journalist highlights the dangers of such divisive rhetoric, noting its potential to exacerbate ethnic tensions, as seen in Gabon’s 2009 elections where non-Fang voters rallied against Fang candidates under the slogan “Tout sauf les Fangs.”

He also condemns Nguini’s attempt to frame supporters of Samuel Eto’o as irrational or paid troublemakers. Dougueli argues that such rhetoric serves to justify the suppression of dissent and reinforce a hierarchical power structure that undermines democratic principles.

While Dougueli acknowledges that constitutionalists, political scientists, and sociologists may analyze Nguini’s statements more deeply, he makes it clear that the vice-rector’s inflammatory remarks risk creating real societal divisions.