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Public celebrations to mark International Labour Day on the 1st of May and National day on May 20th are not to take place in Cameroon this year. In a release signed by the Secretary General at the Presidency of the Republic on April 22nd, the decision is to maintain social distancing and stop the spread of COVID-19.
To some Cameroonians, this is a right decision to reduce the risk of contracting the disease. This category of people argue that Cameroon has recorded over 1000 cases of coronavirus so far because some citizens have been violating the 20 preventive measures put in place by the government.
Despite this, some politicians see a hidden agenda by the regime of Paul Biya for cancelling the public celebration of the National Day.
According to Fabrice Lena, national communication secretary of Popular Action Party (PAP) “COVID-19 measures in Cameroon including the boycott of 20th May celebration is accompanied by a hidden agenda of unveiling the truth about a defunct government”.
To the politician, besides COVID-19, the regime has a particular interest for cancelling the celebrations.
President Paul Biya’s appearance at the Unity Palace Thursday April 16th after 37 days of absence seems not to have convinced many Cameroonians of his existence.
While absent from the public for close to 40 days, rumours went viral on social media with others claiming that he joined his ancestors. Professor Maurice Kamto, leader of the CRM party went as far as calling on the speaker of the National Assembly to establish vacancy at the helm of power.
This group of Cameroonians wanted to see the President at the 20th May Boulevard preside over activities to mark the national day.
Mimi Mefo Info.
