National holiday of the Republic of Cameroon (20/05)

May 20 — is a very important date for Cameroonians, it is a public holiday of unity and patriotism — National holiday of the Republic of Cameroon (Fête nationale du Cameroun).

In 1884-1916, Cameroon was a colony of Germany. After Germany's defeat in World War I, the colony became a League of Nations Mandate territory and was split in two between Britain and France. In 1960, French Cameroon declared its independence, and soon British Cameroon united with the newly created republic. The Federal Republic of Cameroon was thus established.

By 1966, most of the managerial prerogatives had passed to the central government of Cameroon. As a result of the merger of the two leading political parties (KS, ONDP) and four less significant ones, a new political party — Cameroon National Union (KNU) was formed.

Before the referendum, which took place on May 20, 1972, Cameroon was a federal republic. And after the referendum, the state was transformed into a unitary republic called the United Republic of Cameroon. Following this, the institutions of power in each of the former parts of the country were liquidated and the post of vice president was abolished. The country became a single state. In honor of this event, the National Holiday of the Republic of Cameroon was established.

Today, in honor of this important holiday, various sporting, ceremonial and entertainment events are held throughout the Republic of Cameroon.

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