KEYNOTE ADDRESS by Emmanuel Ekumah

My dear Brothers and Sisters
Distinguished Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen

Before I commence my conversation with you today, I would like to call upon you to join me in observing a moment of silence in honor of two departed MECA-USA Founding Fathers: Late Chief Carlet Ayuk-Ako of MECA-DC and late Chief Ernest Tambe-Agbor of MECA-Georgia. Also, on a very personal note, please join me in praying for eternal rest for my dear mother, Princess Sarah Orock Etchu, whom I laid to rest exactly one year ago today in her final resting place in Bachuo-Akagbe.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Atlanta Truth & Reconciliation Conference Planning Committee for selecting me as the Keynote Speaker. So, who is a keynote speaker and what is his/her role in a critical gathering of this nature? For those who may not be aware, most professional conferences, political events, conventions, and organizational gatherings, typically would select a keynote speaker to not only be the prime speaker at the come-together, but the tone-setter and the person responsible for refocusing the audience on theme of the conference. Knowing how judgmental we Manyu people are, I have decided to speak a little about myself before some of you invoke the Manyu syndrome, “Wo chi aha?” which translates to, “Who are you?”

I am a career Education Administrator with four undergraduate and graduate degrees in Education, International Relations and Information Technology. Since arrival in the USA in 1982, I have been deeply dedicated in being a constructive voice in the issues affecting both the Cameroonian and Manyu communities in the USA. I was a founding member of CAMSA-USA in 1983, and served the organization in numerous capacities such as, Senior Adviser to National Presidents, Chapter President/VP of New England, Committee Chairman and Special Envoy to numerous Presidents of CAMSA-USA.

In the Manyu community, I was one of the six MECA-USA Founding Fathers & Mothers and the Founding Father of the Manyu group in Boston, MA in January 1989, which later became MECA New England - one of the founding chapters of MECA-USA in March 1990. For twenty years, besides being one of its dedicated believers, I have participated in eighteen out of twenty national conventions and the only person to have chaired the most conventions and national events. Lastly, I have served as an Adviser to almost every National Chairman, chaired several committees and been there in attempting to resolve many conflicts our community has faced and continue to experience.

Manyu! Manyu! Now that I have been unmasked, I believe it is the right moment for us to rise up, greet one another, shake hands, hug each other as we start the process of defining why we are here in Atlanta, Georgia today.

Why Are We Here In Atlanta, GA Today?

In case you haven’t yet noticed and/or it didn’t hit you yet, the MECA-USA family is facing its worst and deepest crisis in twenty years. Most of you would agree with me that most families and organizations at some time in their existence do undergo certain difficult moments. However, if any entity, be it a family or organization does not develop adequate mechanisms to successfully resolve its disputes, anarchy in the form of mistrust, disunity and dishonesty reigns. Simply, the group becomes DYSFUNCTIONAL.

My dear brothers and sisters, whether you agree or disagree with my observations, I am here to proclaim to you in the clearest tone possible that MECA-USA, our beloved organization, is an excellent example of a dysfunctional group. We have lived in denial all these while, and today, we are gathered to salvage what remains of our group. This process is called TRUTH & RECONCILIATION. My hope is that at the end of this conference, each participant would disperse from here taking along with them the true meaning of this event, and, of course, putting in to practice some or all of the lessons learned today.

While TRUTH is simply a stated fact, Reconciliation is defined as settlement, resolution, compromise, bringing together. In reconciliation, we MUST take into account the source(s) and cause(s) of the dispute(s), acknowledgment of wrong(s), ability to forgive and exploration of fair and clear avenues to recompense. It is completely untrue to hold the position that reconciliation can take place only between groups or parties. In reality, it is an individual process and exercise which once actualized, then one is confidently and honestly prepared to partake in the general exercise.


Even though some in our community would claim that this conference was a failure because some faction boycotted, I stand here to assure you that such is not entirely accurate. Your presence here today is a huge step in the right direction and future this organization needs at this time. We cannot force unwilling parties on the peace table; however, when the life of an organization is on life support in the intensive care unit, stakeholders interested in unity, love, progress and peace may take upon themselves to build the necessary bridges to connect one another. My dear brothers and sisters, that’s why we are here today.

Where We Came From: Brief History

For a people or community to be strong, they MUST have a rigid grasp, appreciation for and respect of their history. By doing so, they are able to learn from mistakes of the past and capitalize on the successes of past generations. The height of arrogance and dishonesty in MECA-USA today has stood in the path of this noble process. Our individual egos and zealous quest for recognition has done nothing but damage the theme that brought us together in the first place.

Unlike today where Manyu people, food, music and culture is everywhere you turn, the early Manyu immigrant in the USA (1980-1990) starved in search of the things we now take for granted. Especially for some of us who resided outside the Washington, DC and Atlanta metro areas, the sight of a fellow Manyuan and/or the rare occasion to eat some eru, left sweet memories in you for several months. It was that extreme desire to commune, interact and network with one another that ignited the idea to conceive a national Manyu network. Also, in CAMSA-USA (the main student organization), regional alliances became very apparent leaving the politically-aspiring Manyu candidate with very little or no organized network to operate on. Consequently, in the summer of 1988, six Manyu children: Carlet Ayuk-Ako, Sandys Eyong, Elizabeth Nkongho, Esther Abangma, Ernest Tambe-Agbor and Emmanuel Ekumah conceived the idea of a national Manyu organization that would not only serve as a cultural platform for Manyuans in America, but would also provide the political muscle to present a formidable political dominance in CAMSA-USA. In the fall of 1989, a general conference of all Manyuans in the USA was held at the White Oak Towers in Silver Spring, MD. Participated were elated with the concept of a national group. Two delegates were selected from the few Manyu meetings groups that existed at the time (Washington, DC, Atlanta, GA, Boston, MA and Houston, TX). These delegates met in an open general assembly forum in Boston, MA on Saturday, March 31, 1990 and developed the framework for the new organization. On that same day, MECA-USA was born and named after its sister organization in Cameroon, MECA. Atlanta, GA was unanimously selected to host the first national convention. In early July 1990.

Where we went off Track

Like most organizations, MECA-USA has seen its own share of triumphs and tribulations. Over the span of its short existence, we have witnessed some major events that have had a tremendous effect on the stability and strength of our group. From internal chapter splits to chapters sounding a vote of no confidence on the National Executive Committee (NEC), these milestones have either strengthen or weakened us depending on how one sees it. On the other hand, we have been successful in small ways over the years in supporting some development efforts in Manyu.

Manyu! Manyu! The three occasions when extreme intolerance manifested its ugly self so vividly, our organization suffered a huge tremor. First, in Washington, DC, the 2001 Convention when the Joseph Eyong administration connived with the Council of Chiefs (COC)/Electoral Committee to disqualify the candidacy of candidate for National Chairman, Morgan Enowmbitang. That decision ultimately led to the disenfranchisement of certain Manyuans and the formation of another Manyu rival group, the National Organization for Manyu Advancement (NOMA). Failing to learn from mistakes of the past, the COC/Electoral Committee once again reneged on their constitutional responsibilities at the July 2007 Houston Convention by presiding over another fraudulent electoral process that led to a team suing the association. Lastly, in July 2009 Washington, DC Convention, the COC and the Independent Electoral Committee in the grandest of all electoral frauds, collected absentee ballots from almost one hundred Manyuans and attempted to influence the outcome of the 2009 elections. Despite appeals from conventioneers for the absentee ballots to be put through the rigorous constitutional scrutiny as stipulated in the MECA-USA constitution, the COC and IEC overruled. The end result was no election and a subsequent decision by the COC to unconstitutionally appoint the incumbent Chairman for another two-year term. The COC decision was followed by four chapters (Washington, DC, Georgia, Dallas and North Carolina) of the organization denouncing the decision and unwillingness to recognize the NEC.

Areas of Concern:

My dear brothers and sisters, based on my professional experience and participation in this organization, please permit me to honestly pinpoint some of the areas that concerns me the most with our group. I am also very convinced that the mere presence of these negative elements have a resounding effect on our state today:

Lack of Leadership
Dishonesty: Lack of Selflessness
Disrespect: Persons & Institutions
Intolerance & Hate

These elements have rendered MECA-USA totally ineffective. To progress and be effective, we must adopt and adhere to the basic principles and attributes of effective organizations.
The Attributes of An Effective Organization: DCOM

DIRECTION: Clear Vision as defined by the Leadership and understood by stakeholders.
COMPETENCE: Ability to articulate and perform tasks. The organization must attract and put in place competent individuals to run its affairs.
OPPORTUNITY: Potential for growth and adequate maximization of human and capital resources.
MOTIVATION: Eagerness to serve and belong. Provide incentives for members to be motivated to serve loyally.

The Way Forward:

- Simple, User-Friendly & Unambiqous By-laws
- Free & Fair Electoral Mechanism
- Effective Structures: Board of Directors, Chapters & Membership clarities
- Effective Project Development/Management Process
- Effective Conflict Resolution Mechanism

To conclude, I would like to wish everyone journey mercies to the respective destinations. Thanks for the honor bestowed on me today and a productive conference to all. God bless.

Long Live MECA-USA
Long Live Manyu Division

CONFERENCE OVERVIEW by Bate Agbor-Baiyee

L-R: Rev. Hamilton, Grace Egbe & Bate Agbor-Baiyee

The meeting began with an inspirational opening prayer delivered by The Prophetic Apostle, Prince, and Reverend, Hamilton Arrey Ayuk. Rev. Ayuk ardently thanked the Lord for voyage mercies and also prayed for those who could not make it. He prayed for, praised and thanked all those who have helped to plan this extra ordinary meeting. He invited our Lord and Savior to guide the hearts and minds that will partake in the deliberations that were to unfold. He prayed that unity, peace and prosperity should reign in Manyu. Furthermore, he prayed for the outcome of the event to be beneficial and far-reaching for the peoples of MECA-USA and the gentle land of Manyu Division.

In his capacity as the fire-brand leader of the hosting chapter, MECA-GA, candidate for the MECA-USA Chairmanship elections in 2009, respected Major in the US Army, Fidelis Agbor in clean crew haircut and dapper Italian suit delivered his opening remarks welcoming and thanking everyone for making the sacrifice to come to this groundbreaking conference. On behalf of the people of MECA-Georgia, the Major said he was extremely excited, appreciative and short of words for a) the dedication and sacrifices of members of the Chapter , b) the members of MECA-USA who staked material and human resources to come from near and far off places and c) for their love and dedication to this treasure called MECA-USA. The major implored all to show tactical accommodation of one another to ensure that our thoughts and actions go a long way to advance the purpose for which we are gathering. (SEE REPORT # 1). In style and excitement, the Major moved on to introduce the crew who will facilitate the business aspects of the deliberations of the conference. Chief coordinator of the deliberation was assigned to Sessekou, Dr. David Tambe (MECA-Dallas) who will be assisted by the able Mrs. Adele Njang (MECA-N. Carolina). Notes were to be taken by Mr. H. Bate AGBOR-BAIYEE (Arizona-MECA-Dallas). The facilitators of the event were immediately invited to the podium to proceed with the management of the events.

Sessekou, Dr. Tambe took the microphone and introduced the agenda for the day and he reminded participants to get individual printed copies of the agenda as well. Dr. Tambe immeasurably thanked everyone for taking time of their busy schedules to come to this imperative Truth and Reconciliation meeting. He movingly expressed his intense joy, confidence and hope in the spirit of resilience of our people. He reiterated the relevance and reason why we were assembled in Atlanta. He reminded participants to be honest, open and professional in the ways they conduct themselves. He reminded participants that we are a family that is not perfect but one that is not going to stop trying to be good and better. He said, as we proceed from Rodeway Inn, we should refrain from treating one another with disrespect, incivility and intolerance. He asked that we do our best to be as candid and constructive as possible so that, hopefully, we shall reach some strategically important and far-reaching resolutions by the end of the meeting that will change the face of MECA-USA forever. He reminded participants that they do not have to agree on everything but, like a true family, we are compelled to be civil and considerate.

Ms Tanyi on her part as co-coordinator took her turn to articulate how delighted she felt in seeing everyone’s bright and beautiful face. She said she was optimistic as she encouraged participants to work collaboratively to reach vital aspirations and solutions for MECA-USA’s challenges. She implored participants to immerse themselves and be involved and engaged in the business of the day. She asked them to contribute ideas wisely too. She asked members in the gathering to go ahead with hopefulness and not be intimidated by those who think MECA-USA is a private property. She added in reassurance that MECA -USA is re-rising as the road to peace, unity and development was being reconstructed. She warned that if we go to slumber, MECA-USA will also go to slumber and Manyu development will face a stalemate. She ended her comments once again by saluting the hosts and those who spared the time to come.
With that said, the conference Coordinator Sessekou, Dr. Tambe turned his eyes back onto the agenda. He stated that an important reason why we are gathered here was to begin to find creative and constructive ways to thaw the tensions and rifts that had come to characterize MECA-USA affairs! He used the word détente (easing of philosophical and ideological tension between adversaries) to describe the mission at the conference. He extended an invitation to the respective Ako-Besong and Agbor-Ebini teams to present a report from their campaigns. The Ako-Besong team was absent and the Agbor-Ebini Team went ahead and presented the following report.
(Center) Patience Ebini

For the Agbor-Ebini campaign Ms Patience Ebini fluently briefed the assembly on their campaign platform and their leadership aspiration for MECA-USA and how that was thwarted by political corruption and nepotism of those who were assigned to guard and guide the democratic integrity of the elections . Amongst other things, she highlighted the attempts by the Agbor-Ebini team to run a clean and honest democratic campaign but met with obstacles from a biased Electoral Commission. She recounted several incidents where the Agbor-Ebini team tried to reach out to the opposing team to change the rhetoric and tone of the electoral politics in MECA-USA to no avail. She denounced the infusion of the shady Absentee Ballot concept to arrange the elections. She went to say; it was even more atrocious to establish a dark and sinister Electoral Commission under the auspices of a personal friend and advisor, Ms Ann Assam (MECA-Chicago) of the opposing team who spent her whole time tirelessly trying to get Mr. Peter Ako elected. Furthermore, she said Ms. Bessem Chu Besong (MECA-DE) wrongfully and arrogantly called off the impending elections. She emphatically stated that, under no circumstances does not any single person have the right to call off a MECA-USA election. Furthermore, the Agbor-Ebini team thoughts it was abnormal and an illegitimate decision for the dysfunctional Council Of Chiefs under Mr. John Etta (MECA- Houston) to add onto sour wounds by handing over power to the Ako-Besong team hence that decision is null and void. The Agbor-Ebini team thinks that COC was colossal failure. She said the Agbor-Ebini team thinks COC was wrong as they were setting a problematic precedence that the Agbor-Ebini team will not accept (SEE REPORT # 2) .

One of the many committees in session:

There were remarks from former chairmen of MECA-USA who passed along wisdom from the grey hair. Former Chairman (1995-1997) and pioneering Public Relations Officer (1990-1995) of MECA-USA, and Sessekou Joseph Mbu (MECA-DC) said he was humbled and delighted to see that committed Manyu children are fighting gallantly to ensure the continued survival of MECA-USA. Like a veritable sage, he said, a house with no links to its past is like a river with no source. He said every successful association or establishment has sustained institutional memory through an active engagement with previous leaderships which has rarely been the case with the recent past leadership of MECA-USA. He decried the fact that we sometime allow leaders in MECA-USA who have no real experience or entrenched interests in the well-being of the organization-MECA-USA. He went on to say that we should stop the practice of using MECA-USA as a place where people come to test their leadership abilities, especially those who may not even be s/elected as leaders of their own households. He went on to say that, at the micro level, Manyu unity will not play second fiddle as we aspire for Manyu prominence in the macro level. He reminded the well attended assembly that the number one principle of MECA-USA since its inception has always been Manyu unity. He asked tongue- in-cheek if this is what we have seen lately. He assured the crowd that we will make it despite the odds and with resounding thunderous refrain from the attendees, the chorus of ‘YES WE CAN’ was chanted. He invited the general assembly to jointly say “MANYU WILL NEVER BE DESTROYED”. Making biblical Referencing, he also said, like the Israelites in the Old Testament, he said we are here to take the MECA-USA train back to its tracks in the Promised Land. He assured the conference categorically that “Manyu will never be destroyed”.

Former Chairman and Sessekou, Solomon Egbe (MECA-DC) took the floor and with his trademark eloquence, thanked all for coming to this ground-breaking meeting. Naming them one by one, he warmheartedly congratulated his past associates and officers and saluted them for all of their hard work and support. He urged participants to seize this moment and take back their organization. He said the organization belongs to the people and the people should not allow themselves to be manipulated and cajoled to submitting to scare tactics. He urged participants to remain involved and engaged in every aspect of the deliberations that will ensue.

Lady K (Mother of MECA USA) & Major Agbor

Ms Katherine Ettandip Arrah-Manyi (Lady K as she is fondly known) in her capacity as the Female VP of MECA-USA 1995-1997 and Mother of MECA-USA took the stage. She began her poignant and yet passionate remark by lamenting the fact that some of his dear friends are not present. She said that Satan’s powers will never stand in the way of God’s grace in His children. She said October 10th, marked the first day of truth and reconciliation for the true believers and devoted members of MECA-USA. She further said that members have not only bought airfares in a trying economic times; they have sacrificed time and taken risks; they have driven long miles across the States to stand together for the unity of the Manyu people, demonstrating our true love for our people at home and abroad. She said that we all have come from near and far to bear witness and fight for the resuscitation of MECA-USA from its worst trials and tribulations. Lady K congratulated everyone for coming. Lady K lamented the fact that those who have passionately stated that ‘Lady K MECA-USA will never die’ are the ones putting the nails on the coffin of this cultural treasure of ours. She asked God almighty to be our guide and savior so that MECA-USA will endure the current assaults. In near teary eyes, she commented that MECA-USA was formed to unite us and not divide us. She prayerfully ended her remarks by saying come twenty years from now, we will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of this association holding hands together paying homage to MECA-USA and our ancestral land. (SEE REPORT # 3)
PHASE TWO:

1. Fact Finding Committees- NEC Handing-over Process – Egbe’s Administration (questions about the books).

- The 2009 Washington Convention Failure: A critical analysis.- Tabi/Mondi against Ako/Besong & MECA-USA (COC) Lawsuit: Lessons learned.

2. Constitution Review Committee- Election reforms (Absentee Ballot, Rotational/Sub-Divisional Cabinet, etc.)

- Administrative & Structural Reforms (Board of Directors, etc.)

- Membership Criteria: Chapter & Individuals.

In a brief preface to this section of the deliberations, the conference coordinator Sessekou,Dr. David Tambe , reminded the General Assembly that this section of the conference was like the meat on the bone of our agenda. He told attendees that this part of the agenda constitutes a very important raison d'être for why we are gathered in Atlanta this week-end and he somberly beckoned on members to be very engaged and involved in every step of the deliberations. He also requested that the members maintain professionalism, honesty and respect of various shades of opinion. The various committees were constituted and were asked to selected their scribes and spoke persons to eventually report their findings to all. As stated above, the committees were broadly arranged as follows, Fact Finding, Project Management/ Finance Committee, Constitutional Review Committee and Management.

Fact -Finding Committee

The Fact Finding Committee consisted of the following;
Mr. Emmanuel Mondi: Scribe
Mr. Ebai Tabeh, Sessekou Solomon Egbe, Sessekou and Chief Philip Tabi, Mr. Samuel Eyong, Sec Gen and Ms Grace Egbe, Ms Regina Ati, Ms Elizabeth Ashukem, Ms Liz Tarkang, Ms Agnes Takeng, Ms Joan Essim.

Committee Chair: Mr. Victor Eware Tataw

Three important items were to be deliberated upon, namely;

1- The NEC Handing over Process
2-2009 Washington Convention Failure
3-Tabi-Mondi vs. Ako-Bessong and MECA-USA Law Suit.

With reference to NEC handing over process, Chairman and Sessekou Solomon Egbe stated, as has been the case on various occasions that all documents were handed over to Chief Cletus Ayuk. However, he insisted that the issue was not about handover of documents, the real issue here is the transfer of power ie. Change of signatures between the incoming and outgoing administration. The Ako-Bessong team failed to adhere to this procedure. See detailed report from Sessekou Egbe in (REPORT # 4)

With respect to the law suit, the spanking new leader of MECA-GA, Sessekou Phillip Tabi in a well-expressed speech delivered to the General Assembly emphatically reiterated the fact that the Tabi-Mondi team did not and will never sue MECA-USA. He clarified that the defendants named on the law suit were John Etta and Peter Ako for deceptively confirming the results and declaring Peter Ako as the winner of the problem infested election. He underlined several times that MECA-USA was not the named defendant on the lawsuit. Please refer to complete details in (SEE REPORT # 5)

The Ako-Besong team was hardly present to offer a perspective.

For the lessons learned, it was agreed that the leadership structure and constitution should make provision for conflict resolution through arbitration. It was also agreed that any grievance should be submitted first to an arbitration committee. In the event this fails, then, the courts will have to decide on the outcome of such contentious issues.

This committee decided not to institutionalize any absentee ballots during MECA-USA elections. They said it is too complicated to define and enforce hence it creates room for fraud. MECA-USA members who must exercise their civic duty to vote must be physically present at the elections convention. No voting by proxy is accepted. The final electoral list should be approved by the General Assembly of each Chapter before submitting it to the electoral committee which must be verified at the convention grounds. The chapter chiefs have no powers to alter this list.

The CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEW COMMITTEE REPORT:

Under the leadership of Dr. Kingsley Takor, the Constitution Review Committee (CRC) had a robust conversation and (SEE REPORT # 6) is a byproduct of their deliberations. Also included attached a copy of the recommendations "MECA-USA-CRC_Recommendations.doc". Also included is (REPORT # 7) a draft version of the Articles of the BOD, "MECA-USA_BOD_Articles_Draft.doc".

(In suit and loose tie) Augustine Agbor

Management Committee- Way forward- Next Elections- Next Convention Date & Venue- Modalities for Ad hoc administration to govern MECA-USA
Committee Chair : Mr. Augustine Agbor

Ms. Mimi Mispah, Ms Theresia Ayang Mbu, Ms Estella Ojongmboh Agbor, Mr. Agnes Ebai, Mr. Bate Agbor Baiyee;Tanyi Adele Mambeng, Ebai Tabe, Major Agbor Fidelis, Mr. Nkongho Deba, Engineer Simon Etta, Ms. Enongene Takor Catherine, Ms. Florence Abange, Ms. Julie Nyanket.

The following resolutions were reported.

1) The creation of an interim management team to run the association until proper elections are held at the next convention.
2) A board of directors should be created to run the business activities of MECA-USA.
3) All elected officials must operate under their defined roles as stated in the constitution.
4) The next elections shall take place at the convention between July 2-July 4, 2010.
5) The management committee proposed Atlanta GA as the next convention Venue
6) The interim MECA-USA governing body shall include the following:

· Administrative Chairperson
· Administrative vice-chairperson
· Secretary General
· Treasurer
· Public Relations/cultural officer.
7) An advisory body consisting of elders, and or former chairpersons should be created.
8) All previous administrations should hand over all items belonging to Meca-USA to the interim body.

To elaborate on the findings listed above, the Management Committee cognizance of the extraordinary and complex nature of the current state of affairs in MECA-USA, the committee decided that an interim government of MECA-USA should be established to man the affairs of MECA-USA until elections are held in the next convention in Atlanta in July of 2010. This idea was put to vote and the congress overwhelmingly voted in favor, with 62= for, 0=against and 1=abstention.

It was also suggested that the organization be managed by a Board of Directors which was put to vote and there was another unanimous vote 62=for, 0 against and 1=abstention.
There were suggestions that the next convention be hosted by Atlanta for a fresh start considering all the mishaps that this organizations has been through. Due to expediency, it was decided that the 2010 convention goes to Atlanta where there are ready human and material resources on the ground to help advance the renewed vision and mission of MECA-USA. There was a unanimous feeling in the house that the next Convention and Elections have to be successful hence there was no room for gambling. It was said that the convention has to be hyped and we needed it to take place where there is high probability for success. The next MECA-USA general elections will be held during this convention.

Mr. Hubert suggested that we endeavor to be transparent in all future electoral processes to avoid the blunders of the DC 2009 Convention/ Elections.

Reverend Hamilton Ayuk, suggested that the team that was to run for office come convention time in 2010 should prepare a transitional team to facilitate the transition.
All previous constitutional formalities for selecting a host for the convention was suspended due to the abnormal situation that MECA-USA finds itself in. After much deliberation, the next Convention was billed for the week-end of July 2nd - 4th of 2010 in Atlanta. Several other places such as North Carolina, DC, Chicago were considered for the hosting but none of them presented a case as convincing as Atlanta. Atlanta was particularly lucky because they had made a strong case evidenced by the on-going Truth and Reconciliation meeting. It was
agreed that an interim government be formed to man the affairs of MECA-USA until a full-fledged elections is held in Atlanta in July of 2010.

The interim government was going to be a corporative style with members of the various chapters selected by lot casting from the various chapters. It is the responsibility of each chapter to identify the member to represent the office that is associated with their chapter.

Culture was present: These dancers were spectacular.

A deadline of November 7th was suggested Chapters to submit their picks for the post they have received in the interim government.

Here is the breakdown of the interim administration.

Interim Chair: Sessekou Maurice Enoh (MECA-Dallas)
Interim vice Chair: Elizabeth Ashunkem (MECA-GA)
Interim Sec Gen: Mr. Baiyee Mondi (MECA-DC)
Interim Financial Sec/ Treasurer: Ms Adele Njang (MECA-N Carolina)
Interim PRO/Cultural Officer: (MECA –Chicago)

Group photos at end of conference:

The business session ended at around 6:15 amidst an atmosphere of euphoria and fanfare. There were group hugs and cameras.

MECA USA ATLANTA CONFERENCE: Contextual framework by Dr. David Tambe (Chair) & Ms. Adele Tanyi (Co-chair)

This conference report documents the details of MECA-USA’s Truth and Reconciliation Conference (TRC) that was held in Atlanta, GA on October 10th, 2009. As the name suggests, the purpose of the conference was to provide a platform for members of MECA-USA to assemble, to debate, to resolve, to reconcile, and to explore solutions to some of the deep rooted problems currently plaguing the organization. This historic conference was the second of its kind. The first such conference was held in Boston, MA (The Boston Summit) ten years ago in April of 1999 when the organization was faced with issues related to clashes at the leadership. The Boston Summit provided a successful platform for members of the organization to dialogue, to restructure, and to advance new concepts designed to transform MECA-USA into a more dynamic and respected organization. The positive outcome of the Boston Summit was well received and praised as a constructive approach to problem solving within the union. This background knowledge and experience was invoked once more in an attempt to tackle some of the pertinent issues facing the organization at present.

The current Truth and Reconciliation Conference was triggered by the botched MECA-USA Annual Convention held in Washington DC from July 3-5, 2009. The humiliating outcome of the DC convention was a culmination of failed policies, failed programs, poor decisions, disrespect for the constitution of MECA-USA, disrespect for and at the leadership of the organization, disrespect for the members of the organization, arrogance, previously unresolved conflicts, etc. All of these factors resulted in a significant divide within the organization. MECA-USA was essentially rifted into coalitions of the willing. Major events leading to the rather disjointed state of the organization include, but are not limited to conflicts related to the highly contested MECA-USA election procedure and results in Houston, Texas in July of 2007, issues related to the Tabi/Mondi vs MECA-USA’s NEC/COC lawsuit that ensued from the contested convention process and results, issues related to the non-handing over of MECA-USA documents and transfer of power between the previous Solomon Egbe administration and ruling Peter Ako administration, allegations or rather assertions of embezzlement of MECA-USA funds by previous administration(s), issues related to the fraudulent or apparent fraudulent operations of the Independent Electoral Committee (IEC) prior to and during the convention, issues related to potentially dubious membership lists submitted by MECA-USA chapters to the Independent Electoral Committee, issues related to the handling of absentee ballots by the IEC prior to the convention, issues related to the suspension of some of the members of the organization, etc.

The immediate outcome of the failed 2009 DC convention and elections was a vacuum at the helm of the organization. Rather than involve the entire organization, this leadership vacuum was filled by the Council of Chiefs (COC), thus creating further confusion and divide within the essential fabric of the organization. The COC’s decision to retain the incumbent administration was considered unconstitutional and denounced by some MECA-USA chapters, while other chapters agreed to go along with the decision of the COC. Irrespective of the decisions taken at the chapter level, the Council of Chief’s decision to retain the incumbent administration led to additional splits within many of the chapters of MECA-USA.


Given the above dysfunctional state of the MECA-USA union, it was imperative that we get together as an organization to rescue the organization from total collapse. The Atlanta Truth and Reconciliation Conference thus provided a platform for members of the union to dialogue, to provide justifications/clarifications to some or all of the problems and allegations cited above, to reconcile eventually, and to explore new approaches to transforming MECA-USA into a more dynamic organization.

The conference was well attended and very successful. Details of the conference agenda, the attendance, the issues tackled, the issues resolved, the major resolutions, etc are included in this conference report. I am proud to say that so much was accomplished during this all-day conference. Most of the work was done in committees and reported back to the general assembly. At the end of the conference, the conference participants agreed almost unanimously to form an interim MECA-USA government that will lead the organization during this period of uncertainty and turmoil. The interim government will carefully handle the affairs of the organization until successful elections are conducted at the next convention. It is imperative that MECA-USA be transformed to a dynamic and effective organization worthy of respect and dignity. The next convention was scheduled for July 2-4, 2010 in Atlanta, GA.

Details of the deliberations, the resolutions, and the ensuing decisions are included in this report. I implore every concerned Manyu son and daughter to read through the report to get the facts as they were divulged during the course of the conference.

We will like to seize this opportunity to thank all those who sacrificed their personal time to attend this conference. We will equally like to thank all those who could not attend, but contributed to the success of conference in one way or the other. We sincerely appreciate MECA-GA for hosting us and for the hospitality.
Long Live MECA-USA
Long Live Manyu Division

Dr. David E Tambe, Conference Co-Chair
Ms. Adele Mbeng Tanyi, Conference Co-Chair

Acceptance speech by Sesekou Maurice Enoh - Interim Chairman MECA USA.

Brothers and Sisters of Great Manyu Division in the United States ,
All Present and past Chiefs,
Our Elders here in the USA ,
Our Elders Back at home and world over
Members of various Manyu Chapters
Ladies and Gentlemen:

On November 7, 2009, the MECA –Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter confronted the fact that they were commissioned to provide and present a member from their chapter to temporally chair the embattled MECA-USA Association and guide it on a steady course towards its next Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, where fair and transparent elections will be held to choose its next full leadership.

After a thorough and successful deliberation centered around the need to come up with an able Interim leader who would: work with all Manyu sons and daughters to restore our dignity; restore respect of each others opinion; restore pride of our culture and our faith in God; proactively work to help those in need; sacrifice for the Manyu cause and the needs of her people in our immediate communities, and communities far and beyond; reassure our folks back home who depend on us for their daily living, and for a clear vision on how to move Manyu forward; the great chapter of MECA in Dallas/Fort Worth elected me as their candidate for the position of Interim Chairman of MECA-USA.

To summarize the core of our problem today, I would say that what we need is better governance - legitimate, democratic governance that allows each individual to flourish, each chapter to thrive, and where ideas of the times originating from the masses are implemented and not stifled from on top.

What we need is an interim leader: who will not feel shy to admit and amend errors made; a leader who will stop listening with the intent to respond, but listen with the intent to understand. As a man who lost his father as a young boy, I know what it is like to grow up as a Manyu orphan. I know what poverty is. I also know what it is like for uncles, aunts and sisters to sacrifice everything to help raise you even when you are not their child. I know the importance of an extended family in which we all belong to, and the diversity of our community in which we are law abiding citizens.

I attended school in University of Calabar and have seen what others do to survive the hardship that surrounds the Cross-River Basin . I lived in Italy and witnessed the suffering of some of our brothers in Europe , and their successes. I have lived in Washington DC where I was a very active member of the chapter and understand why smaller chapters may be intimidated by its might; in due course I have witness the population of Manyuans swollen with new-comers and of course our children who in turn are making their own children.

I live in Dallas, home of the most progressive chapter with very vocal women which helped reinforce the belief I had as a young boy being raised by my aunt, my sisters, that for Manyu people to succeed, they must fully engage the Manyu women as well as the young and energetic Manyu men and women in their vision.

It is in this spirit that I humbly accept this position as INTERIM CHAIRPERSON OF MECA-USA. As I accept this high office, I am very aware that there is a tremendous amount of work involved that goes along with the magnitude of this position. While admitting that, I will welcome ideas from every Manyu son or daughter towards the betterment of this our dear association, I would like to point out that not all advices, suggestions, opinions, questions, clarifications may be handled exactly the way you would have handled it. Whatever we choose to implement will reflect what we feel is in the best interest of the association amongst all the suggestions and opinions we get.

We understand, as never before, that each of us is fully worthy of the respect and dignity essential to the Manyu people. We recognize that we are the products of four (4) subdivisions, and that mutual respect allows us to study and learn from others from the overlapping identities which we inherited from different parts of the Division. Candidly speaking, if someone says we the Manyu people are fine, that is a disservice to us. We are not fine, and even those who feel that they are fine should challenge themselves to even do better so that the less fortunate around them can benefit from their incremental rise.

For those who see the problems, look at them critically to make sure that these problems are not allowed to migrate to or contaminate areas that have nothing to do with it. Manyu people have some issues that need to be fixed, and it could only be done when we all put our efforts and heads together. The different subgroups emerging, confusion of who has the books versus who don’t have the books, alleged electoral frauds, summons in judicial system, personal conflicts among members, who’s family did what versus those that did not. Who went to this school versus those that went to that school? I can hire and pay you syndrome. All these have failed us tremendously in all aspect, and to move forward successfully, we need to confront them head on.

In every great faith and tradition one can find the values of tolerance and mutual understanding. " In the Jewish tradition, the injunction to "love thy neighbor as thyself," is considered to be the very essence of the Torah. While Confucianism: “Do not do to others what you would not like yourself. Then there will be no resentment against you, either in the family or in the state” Analects 12:2. Why then do we keep hurting each other? Please, we should continue with this momentum and make sure that we remain the victor.

Ladies and Gentlemen, this should lead us to understand that we gain strength by combining the unfamiliar with the familiar. My task is huge, my time is short, and my mandate is clear and specific, but with the help of my able Vice Chairlady, Mrs. Elizabeth Tarkang-Ashunkem, my cabinet and dedicated members like yourself I can assure you that we are ready to move mountains.

Long Live Manyu,
Long Live MECA,
Long Live USA .

Sessekou Maurice A. Enoh
Interim Chairman MECA-USA

Rising to the Call of Leadership in MECA USA: Sesekou Maurice Enoh – as Interim Chair.

Interim Chair - MECA USA (Sesekou Maurice Enoh, middle)

Every so often, a generation is called to lead, serve and ultimately influence change in MECA USA. However, true leadership involves more than simply being the person out front or chosen, it means living a life worth following.

After the Truth and Reconciliation conference in Atlanta, the people of MECA USA resolved to form an Interim government until the next convention in July 2010. The great state of Texas, home to MECA Dallas won the ballot to provide an Interim Chair. Indeed, Dallas did not disappoint us as they walked through the mine field and choose one they trusted and know will deliver for MECA USA. MECA Dallas provided a young and rising Ekpe Chief who does not only know and defend the culture but has the energy, invincible determination and the right levers to move the union forward.

As Interim Chairperson of MECA USA, Sesekou Maurice Enoh is no light weight or Stranger to MECA USA politics. Upon arriving Washington many years ago, Sesekou Enoh wasted no time in becoming an active member of MECA DC. A devoted steward of the association, he quietly watched, studied and participated in MECA events and contributed financially in projects. This career health care administrator knows how to resuscitate a sick patient like MECA USA. He is capable of making decisions under pressure, admit and deal effectively with mistakes and set a course that others will follow.

As Martin Luther King Jr once put it, “the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of great challenges and controversy”. MECA USA has a leader that not only sees the way to victory but believes where there is no vision, an association perishes. The good old days of MECA USA are back again. Congratulations to the Interim administration led by Sesekou Enoh (chair) and Ms. Elizabeth Ashukem (vice chair).