National Day: Biya presides over colourful military, civilian march past in Yaounde.

Conspicuously present at the ceremonial ground were the Presidents of the Senate, National Assembly, Economic and Social Council, the Prime Minister, Head of Government and members of government. 

Members of diplomatic corps, representatives of international organisation, other national dignitaries as well as heads of political parties and personalities also lived the event.   

Upon his arrival at the ceremonial ground, the Head of State and Commander in-Chief of the Armed Forces, was welcomed by the Minister Delegate at the Presidency In-Charge of Defence, Joseph Beti Assomo. 

This was followed by military honours, under the command of Brigadier General Donatien Nouma Melingui.  He was assisted by Colonel Abba Saidou.

Prior to the start of the military parade, tradition was respected, as a contingent of Equato-Guinean soldiers, invited by the Head of State, marched past the ceremonial ground. 

For over 45 minutes, Cameroon’s military prowess was on display with the different components of the defense and security forces taking turns to parade before the President of the Republic and his guests. 

The army and all its components, the Gendarmerie, Police, Customs all showcased their might in all its facets. There was also a motorized march past during which defence and security hardware was displayed. 

The civilian phase of the celebration kickstarted with Primary School pupils and students of Secondary and High Schools. This was followed by those of different higher institutions of learning. 

Clad in party apparels, supporters of different political parties marched past with the notable participation of the FSNC, MDR, CDU, UPC, SDF, UNDP and the ruling CPDM party. 

The civilian march past was characterised by the carrying of placards bearing messages of peace, unity, patriotism, nation building and decrying the misuse of social media, drug abuse and other vices.   

The 52^nd edition of the National Day celebration was under the theme: “Army and Nation: Together for a United, Peaceful, and Prosperous Cameroon”.

Meanwhile, in keeping with tradition, President Biya also offered a state banquet later at the Unity Palace last night. This was as a sign of strengthening the bond of unity, nation building and partnership with friendly countries represented by diplomatic missions accredited to Yaounde.