From applause for elite troops to messages of peace and social cohesion carried by the youth, the 54th National Day celebration in Yaounde, chaired by the Head of State Paul Biya, portrayed a united nation despite challenges.
Yaounde wore a festive glow on May 20 as Cameroon celebrated the 54th National Unity Day with pomp, colour and patriotic flavour at the May 20 Boulevard. President Paul Biya, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, presided over the grand parade showcasing the resilience, diversity and unity of the nation.
Long before the presidential motorcade arrived, the boulevard had transformed into a sea of colour. Thousands of spectators filled the stands while flowers and decorations adorned the grandstand. As the national anthem echoed across the boulevard, the Head of State reviewed the troops before taking his seat at the presidential tribune.
Present to receive the President were Senate President Aboubakari Abdoulaye, Defence Minister Joseph Beti Assomo and Brigadier General Chembou Zambou Guy Merlin who commanded the military parade.
The military phase opened with a special contingent from Chad, symbolising ties between both countries. The Presidential Guard drew applause with their purple berets and synchronised steps while the Combined Military Services Academy marched with elegance and discipline. The multipurpose intervention unit equally impressed spectators with their protective gear and combat readiness. Anti-terrorist units, amphibious forces, firefighters, penitentiary officers, national security personnel, ex-servicemen and war victims also paraded in sturdy rhythm to the admiration of the crowd. President Paul Biya and First Lady Chantal Biya applauded the defence and security forces for their commitment to safeguarding peace and territorial integrity.
Then came the civilian parade. Pupils, students and youths transformed the boulevard into a mosaic of Cameroon’s linguistic and cultural diversity. Singing patriotic songs, they carried messages promoting peace, social cohesion, integrity and national unity. Others called for resistance against fake news and divisive rhetoric while pledging to contribute to national development through entrepreneurship and innovation.
Even light drizzles over the boulevard failed to dampen the youths’ spirits. Smiling and chanting patriotic songs, they marched with enthusiasm, reflecting the pride and joy of celebrating Cameroon’s unity.
Political parties represented in the National Assembly heeled the schoolchildren. The Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement stood out with massive mobilisation of supporters reaffirming their attachment to the ideals championed by President Paul Biya. Other parties including the Union of the Peoples of Cameroon, Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation, Cameroon Democratic Union, Movement for the Defence of the Republic and the National Union for Democracy and Progress also marched.
The ceremony brought together As CPDM Secretary General Jean Nkuété watched, including National Assembly Speaker Datouo Theodore, Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute, members of government and the diplomatic corps.
Claudette Chin
