November 4-6, 1982 : Historic Swift Transition

Cameroonians spent Thursday November 4, 1982 peacefully going about their daily activities.  No body could suspect that there could be any cabinet reshuffle, talk less of change at the helm of State.
Then came the time for the 8:30 pm French Language news over Radio Cameroon. People got set to listen to national and and world news. Surprisingly, the unsuspected and unexpected happened.  It was the speech of President Ahmadou Ahidjo. This made attention to the message more keen.  And the surprise came when he started with the announcement “Cameroonians, Cameroonians, my dear compatriots. I have decided to resign from my function of the President of the Republic of Cameroon”. He specified that the decision will take effect from Saturday 6 November 1982 at 10 am. 
After breaking the news, President Ahidjo said that from the depth of his heart, he thanked those who have since very soon 25 years gave him their trust and assistance that enabled him accomplish the daunting task at the helm of State.  He singled out for thanks, the militants of the Cameroon National Union (CNU) for their total and unalloyed support. He told Cameroonians that the country has important assets which include national unity to be consolidated, numerous resources, continously expanding economy, improving social justice, hardworking population, dynamic youths and solid and fruitful friendly relations and cooperation in Africa and the world.
Despite the above message, suspense still loomed. The President broke the suspense when he invited all Cameroonians to without reserve give their trust and assistance to his Constitutional successor, Mr Paul Biya. After this, he insisted that Paul Biya merits the trust of all at home and abroad.
President Ahmadou Ahidjo’s announcement ushered in a different era in Cameroon he ruled as Head of State from independence on January 1, 1960.  From every indication, the Cameroonian population taken by surprise spent the period between 4 November night and 6 November wondering and also in anticipation. President Ahidjo in his resignation speech gave no reason for the decision.
Preparations for the handing over of power ceremony accelerated on Friday, November 5, 1982.  Two venues caught attention. The National Assembly where the new President of the Republic, Paul Biya had to take the oath of office in a swearing-in ritual presided at by the Speaker of the National Assembly. The second venue was the Unity Palace where the final handing over ritual was to take place. As decided, Paul Bi...