Cameroon Republic Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Cameroon

In 1884, the Germans invaded Cameroon (formerly known as Kamerun). Upon Germany's defeat in the First World War, however, Britain and France assumed authority of the country.

The Republic Day of Cameroon is celebrated annually on May 20. The occasion is also known as National Day of Cameroon and Cameron Unity Day. On this date in 1972, President Ahmadou Ahidjo abolished the federal system of government and established a unitary state. The day is a national holiday in Cameroon, but it is still extensively observed. The day’s attractions, however, are the military and civilian parades and the presidential address. On this day, schools and businesses are closed so that everyone can celebrate. Happy Cameroon Republic Day to all Cameroonian citizens!

The background of Cameroon Republic Day

In 1884, the Germans invaded Cameroon (formerly known as Kamerun). Upon Germany’s defeat in the First World War, however, Britain and France assumed authority of the country. After the Second World War, Cameroon became one of the United Nations Trust Territories. The United Nations Trust Territory, also known as French Cameroun, gained independence from France on January 1, 1960. On October 1, 1961, British Southern Cameroons became a federated state within Cameroon.

In a national referendum held on May 20, 1972, Cameroonians voted for a unitary state. This would restructure the current federal system of government. A unitary state was then established by President Ahmadou Ahidjo, who abolished the federal system of government. This was formerly referred to as the Republic of Cameroon. Since 1972, two presidents of Cameroon have been elected by popular vote. The term of office for the president is seven years.

Cameroon’s legislature is the National Assembly, and laws are enacted by a majority vote. The government also recognises the local governance authority of traditional chiefs and fons. As long as they do not conflict with national law, they may even be involved in resolving disputes. The legal system of Cameroon consists of civil law, common law, and customary law. Despite the independence of the courts, the president appoints justices at all levels. Freedom House has similarly ranked Cameroon as “not free” with regard to political and civil rights.

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