 The divisive council remained over much of 1998 and early 1999 until October 1999 when the government found multiple members guilty in the 1997 trial.Although the faction led by Fossung opposed a unilateral declaration of independence, the faction led by Mukete became more assertive.While Mukete was officially traveling abroad, a small group took over Radio Buea and proclaimed the establishment of Southern Cameroons as an independent and legal political force.