The usual bustle around government ministries and other public offices in Yaounde took on an unusual quietness this March 24.
This was because top government officials, including Ministers and Directors of state institutions, left the capital to join their respective political bases to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) party.
With the aim of staging grand celebrations, officials traveled to their home sections and sub-sections of the party to lead activities marking the ruling party’s four decades of existence.
This has left government ministries, directorates, and some state institutions operating at a slow pace, with many offices nearly empty.
“I could not be served today because I was told those who had to attend to me were not at work. Going through the social media, I saw them marching and calling for 92 years old Biya to run again,” said Sandrine, a student in Yaounde.
During the program “Cameroon Calling” on state media CRTV, Fru Jonathan, an official of the CPDM stated that “March 24th is like an undeclared public holiday”.
In Yaounde, the almost zero government presence stands out in usually crowded areas like the ministries’ neighbourhood, where traffic congestion eased.
Businesses that depended on the daily movement of state workers, including restaurants and transport services, have reported a decline in customers.
“Today was almost not a working day for us. My restaurant didn’t operate because those who come around chasing files were not there today. Almost all government offices were not active” said Angeline, a food vendor in yaounde.
CPDM’s Transition from CNU
The CPDM party was born in Bamenda on March 24, 1985, after President Paul Biya reformed the then lone existing party, Cameroon National Union (CNU).
The CPDM has since then been the ruling party, securing disputed victories at all presidential elections.
Every March 24, militants and sympathizers usually dress in the party’s uniform which bears the picture of President Biya.
They offer “motions of support” to the president and always renew their support for 92-year-old Paul Biya.
This year, militants across the grassroots structures of the party sang songs in honor of Biya, praying for long life and another seven-year mandate at the helm of the state.
Across various regions, CPDM barons led the celebrations, holding rallies, and engaging with grassroots supporters to mark the milestone.
This year’s anniversary comes at a crucial time, with political and economic challenges shaping discussions on the party’s legacy and future.
As the commemorations continue, Cameroonians have taken to the social media to question what the legacy of the CPDM really is.
