Cameroon Republic Day – May 20, 2027

History of Cameroon Republic Day

The Germans invaded Cameroon (previously known as Kamerun) in 1884. However, with Germany’s defeat in the First World War, both Britain and France assumed control of the nation. As a result, following the Second World War, Cameroon became one of the U.N. Trust Territories. The United Nations Trust Territory, known as French Cameroun, won independence from France on January 1, 1960, and British Southern Cameroons transformed into a federated state within Cameroon on October 1, 1961.

On May 20, 1972, in a national referendum, Cameroonians voted for a unitary state. This would overhaul the existing federal system of governance. The federal system of government was then abolished by President Ahmadou Ahidjo, and a unitary state was established. This was known as the Republic of Cameroon. Since 1972, Cameroon has elected two presidents through popular vote. A president serves in that position for seven years.

The National Assembly of Cameroon makes the legislation, and laws are passed based on a majority vote. The government also recognizes the authority of traditional chiefs and fons to govern at the local level. They might even be involved in resolving disputes as long as they do not conflict with national law. Cameroon’s legal system comprises civil law, common law, and customary law. Although the courts function independently, the president appoints judges at all levels. In terms of political and civil rights, Cameroon has likewise received a “not free” ranking from Freedom House.