CPDM Marks 41st Anniversary at Historic Bamenda Congress Hall

CPDM Marks 41st Anniversary at Historic Bamenda Congress Hall

The Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) has commemorated its 41st anniversary with a symbolic and high-spirited celebration at the Bamenda Congress Hall widely regarded as the birthplace of the party following its transformation from the CNU.

The event, held in Bamenda, brought together militants from various sections across the North West Region, alongside key figures in the party hierarchy. It was a moment of reflection, renewal and reaffirmation of support for the National President, Paul Biya, who has often described Bamenda as his “second home.”

Clad in party colours and animated by songs and chants, supporters filled the historic hall, recalling the political milestone that saw the Cameroon National Union (CNU) evolve into the CPDM a party that has since dominated the country’s political landscape, particularly since the advent of multiparty politics.

Speaking during the celebration, the Permanent Regional Coordinator of the CPDM for the North West, H.E. Philemon Yang, underscored the significance of marking the anniversary at such a symbolic venue.

“We are today celebrating 41 years of existence, and in fact, we are in the hall where the party was created,” he said. “It is an opportunity for us to take stock of our achievements, appreciate how far we have come, and above all, look ahead to the future with confidence.”

Yang highlighted the party’s record in governance, noting that while there is much to celebrate, the focus remains firmly on upcoming challenges, including municipal elections expected in the months ahead.

“Our objective is clear — to secure victory,” he stated, expressing optimism that the party’s grassroots strength and organization would once again deliver results.

The party hierarchy in the region also described the anniversary as both a celebration of past achievements and a forward-looking moment for the party, especially in view of upcoming elections.

“There are a lot of things to celebrate because we have accomplished a lot and succeeded in many areas,” she said. “But beyond celebrating, we must reflect on the past, assess the present and focus on the future. We are convinced that tomorrow will be even better than today.”

Senator Regina Mundi placed strong emphasis on the central role of youth and women in the party’s vision, in line with the Head of State’s policy direction. She called on both groups to prepare themselves to seize emerging opportunities.

“We are appealing to young people to improve themselves academically, professionally or through vocational training that can generate income,” she said.

Addressing women, she urged a shift towards more sustainable and impactful ventures, particularly in technical and digital fields.

“Women must acquire skills, engage in intellectual activities and embrace the technical and digital world. No woman should shy away from any field,” she added.

She further highlighted government efforts aimed at empowering these groups, citing funds approved by the Senate to support the training of youth and women in small and medium-sized enterprises amounting over 50 Billions Francs cfa, while encouraging them to form groups and associations to better access such opportunities.

At the grassroots level, party militant Chenwi Gilbert spoke from a youth perspective, aligning with the broader call for responsibility, engagement and readiness among young people as the party looks ahead.

The celebration ended on a note of unity and renewed commitment, as militants reaffirmed their loyalty to the party and its leadership.

For many, marking the 41st anniversary at the Bamenda Congress Hall was not just symbolic  it was a powerful reminder of the CPDM’s roots and its enduring presence in Cameroon’s political life.