Franco-Cameroonian History: President Paul Biya’s Landmark Address on the complex and painful legacy of France’s role in suppressing independence movements in Cameroon between 1945 and 1971.
Source: www.prc.cm
On January 28, 2025, Unity Palace in Yaoundé became the stage for a historic moment in Cameroon’s post-colonial journey. President Paul Biya welcomed dignitaries, historians, artists, and diplomats to present the findings of the Franco-Cameroonian Joint Memory Commission, a bold initiative aimed at confronting the complex and painful legacy of France’s role in suppressing independence movements in Cameroon between 1945 and 1971.
President Biya opened his speech by recalling the genesis of the Commission, established in July 2022 to address a long-standing silence in Franco-Cameroonian relations. He emphasized the need to “break a decades-old taboo” and usher in a new era of transparency and mutual respect between the two nations.
This initiative follows a similar ceremony held at the Élysée Palace just days earlier, where the French President received the Commission’s summary report. Now, Cameroon takes its turn to reflect, acknowledge, and chart a path forward.
Referencing his 1987 book Communal Liberalism, Biya reiterated his belief that Cameroon’s independence was “hard-won by many worthy children of this land.” He called on historians and local councils to continue honoring those who fought for freedom and reunification, recognizing the emotional weight that this period still carries for many Cameroonians.
The President praised the Commission’s co-chairs, historian Karine Ramondi and artist Blick Bassy, for their courage, intellectual rigor, and commitment to truth. Their leadership, alongside 12 other distinguished members, has produced a body of work that Biya described as “collective therapy,” helping both nations confront their shared history with honesty and dignity.
President Biya framed the Commission’s work as a “necessary first step” in a broader journey of reconciliation. He urged both countries to build on this momentum by:
- Elevating memory sites to honor historical events and figures
- Updating educational curricula to reflect a more accurate historical narrative
- Creating a monitoring committee to ensure continued engagement and implementation
- Fostering scientific research to deepen understanding of shared history
This is not just about the past, it’s about shaping a future free from “misunderstandings and suspicions,” built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to truth.
In closing, President Biya reminded the audience that the Commission’s work will resonate far beyond today’s ceremony. It offers future generations the tools to understand their identity, their history, and their place in the world.
Click HERE to Read Full Speech of President Paul Biya through the official website of the Presidency
This speech marks a pivotal moment in Cameroon’s journey toward historical justice and international partnership. It’s a reminder that healing begins with truth—and that truth, when courageously pursued, can transform relationships, nations, and futures.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
