National Fraternity: Federating Efforts For Better Unity, Dev’t

Cameroon’s defence and security forces alongside the civilian population have shown their undying attachment to State institutions and the desire to accompany the Head of State who incarnates them. The colourful military and civilian parades marking the 54th edition of the National Day which President Paul Biya chaired at the May 20 Boulevard in downtown Yaounde yesterday were a perfect show of might, loyalty and resolve for better days ahead. In fact, the theme of this year’s celebration, “National Unity: Backbone of our Defence System, Bedrock of Cameroon’s Development,” got a human face in the different articulations. A combat-ready defence and security forces with all their artilleries and the accompanying population with soulsearching messages all pointing to fruitful Army-Nation symbiosis and prospects of better days ahead in consolidating national unity and jointly spearheading socio-economic development. Interwoven actors of peaceful co-existence of a diverse people of one country with the goal of giving national growth a pride of place by all. The magnificence of this year’s National Day hit crescendo when the Head of State made his entry into the ceremonial grand slightly over midday, a few minutes after that of First Lady, Chantal Biya. Every actor and even observers adjusted, knowing that serious business was in the offing. And indeed, it was a kicker to almost two hours of unforgettable Army-Nation attachment needed to keep Cameroon going and making the country even better for future generations. After his welcome by the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence, Joseph Beti Assomo, singing of the national anthem and motorized review of troops, with admiration from the public who cheered as he rode past, the stage was set for the assorted display of military might, pledge to national security and cohesion with the populace. True to her spirit of cordiality, the pride of place was given to the visiting detachment of the Armed Forces from Chad who electrified the May 20 Boulevard with their majestic marching steps. Their captivating performance in front of the Presidential tribune was reminiscent of the friendly and mutual relations Cameroon entertains with the brotherly country. The National Gendarmerie Band performed the Carousel depicting Cameroon’s linguistic and cultural riches in diversity as well as the need for sons and daughters to remain united for better growth. This flagged off national military parade, which ranged from the Squadron of the Presidential Guard with its band, Combined Services Military Academy, to other detachments of the military, gendarmerie, police, penitentiary and customs. Orders from the Commanding Officer; Brigadier General Chembou Zambou Guy Merlin, Commander of Sector 1 of the Multinational Joint Task Force, gave additional splendour to the parade which was a veritable display of fortitude and love for the Fatherland, the flag and the Head of State. Giving such a huge responsibility to the youngest of the Military Generals, 53, was not by chance. Indeed, the Head of State’s “Greatness and Hope” mandate has youth and women as driving forces. Colonel Mbarga Benjamin Patrick of the National Gendarmerie was Second in Command. The civilian parade was another attraction as selected schools in Yaounde and politica...