...“I sometimes wonder if it is true the things they say about the French—that they are sleazy as businessmen, crazy as politicians, and that they go about life like born usurpers. Wouldn’t I be stereotyping too if I hold on to those preconceptions, just like others have been stereotyping about our people?”
“If I could have my way, I wouldn’t deal with them at all.”
Nana Njike smiled at his friend. “Remember that developments over the years have bonded us together in an inseparable tango. We are destined to either find a way to enjoy our dance together or be doomed for perpetuity. That doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be held accountable for failing to base our relationship on realism.”
“True we are bound to deal with one another for life. But all I am asking for is a relationship that is mutually beneficial.”
“It is what most Kamerunians want.”
A thoughtful expression appeared on Ngenjeu’s face for a moment. Then he shrugged and smiled faintly at his friend. He had no interest in philosophy and made it a point of perceiving business relationships in the simplest terms possible.
“You might be right after all. I guess you know them better.”
Nana Njike shrugged too and smiled. “That’s business. The players always want an edge over their counterparts, even if they share a common interest. Only, in our case, the French are both players and arbitrators.”...
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