After putting the ball in ELECAM's court for the scrutiny of lists, Cameroonians in general, and our electorate in particular, now await the next step.

This, we are aware is the validation on 14 April, by the Electoral College comprising the people's representatives at municipal level. Their decision at the senatorial polls in principle, should respect the interest of the people. Here, lies another test of political maturity which must not be taken lightly.

Consequently, while, ELECAM, is expected to be rational in their choice of who should be mandated to serve the nation at the level of Cameroon's first senate, the Electoral College, (Councillors) should be patriotic enough to be wise and rational at the polls. Putting aside all forms of human weaknesses, they should aim at giving the right people the chance to serve the nation.

This challenge is important, and indeed crucial considering that even at the level of the various political parties, the weaknesses of egoism and settlement of scores, besides other geopolitical flaws, were conspicuous and indeed disturbing. Politics is said to be a game of interest, but we cannot shy off from selfless stewardship to the nation. What then does it mean to think national, while acting with normal consideration for our primary groups? National objectives should be followed by joint action for positive results.

Responding to the socio-economic and political needs of our nation by putting in place institutions and persons that contribute to growth, is one of the obligations. Selfless commitment to what is at stake is primordial, and should be given the importance deserved.

This, however can only be achieved if we are not ostentatious, narrow patriotic, and egoistic. Worse, if we are so selfish that we do not see the dangers of placing the wrong persons in the right places, (a weakness that besides its costs, tarnishes the image of nations), we would be deceiving ourselves and the international community. For, nation-building demands an understanding, of the realities of life and institutions without which, it is difficult to govern in respect of the Law and democratic principles.

This explains why patriotic and truly politically mature citizens hardly disagree with Oliver Wendell Holmes who said "The longer we live, the more we find out that we are like other persons." From this truth, we should learn to tolerate and forgive, dialogue and cooperate with the aim of attaining goals of Common interest, which include participation in all that which patterns to preparation and choice of who should be what in our assemblies, and leadership.

We should be honest, sincere, and patriotic enough to work hard and see that we put in place representatives that will make a senate worth its name.