In Cameroon, opposition leader Maurice Kamto denounces a constitutional coup, referring to the proposed constitutional revision introduced this week by the ruling party. The text provides for the creation of a Vice-Presidential post appointed by the Head of State.
“And now, with the complicity of these various supporters, he is shifting the transfer of power from the administrative to the political and institutional sphere. Some are calling it a constitutional coup, and they are not wrong. What is underway is indeed an unconstitutional power grab, condemned by the legal instruments of the African Union, whose reaction we eagerly await. This is all the more important given that Article 64 of the current Constitution stipulates that ‘no constitutional amendment may be adopted if it undermines democratic principles.’ Through this negotiated transfer of power, the incumbent President is establishing a constitutionally based republican monarchy, a hereditary or nepotistic dynasty,” declares Maurice Kamto, President of the MRC.
In his speech on Friday, the national president of the MRC promised a petition for a popular expression.
We must prevent the political misfortune afflicting our country from flourishing. We must all, together, clearly and loudly express our rejection of the ongoing constitutional and institutional coup. To this end, we will launch an online petition campaign so that Cameroonians, regardless of political affiliation, can voice their opinions. The sovereign people must remain confident and strong, and ultimately decide who the true president of the Republic of Cameroon is, who the true members of parliament are, who the true municipal councilors and mayors of our cities are, and who the true regional councilors are, invested with their trust and therefore their legitimacy.”
These statements initiate a new power struggle between the opposition and the government in Cameroon, as President Paul Biya, 93, has just been sworn in for an eighth term.
