The Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, gives 15 days to organizations already possessing these insignia to hand them over to the authorities.
Members of non-profit organizations are now prohibited from wearing and possessing, throughout Cameroonian territory, attributes, outfits, insignia, or any other distinctive signs similar to those of the Defense and Security Forces and the United Nations system. Furthermore, the minister orders those who already possess these items to make them available to the administrative authorities of their headquarters.
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The leaders of these organizations have 15 days to comply with this requirement. Generally, the government member announces legal proceedings against organizations that deviate from the regulatory framework.
The new measure is contained in decree n° 000106/A/MINAT of July 21, 2021, made public this Tuesday. Through this text, which does not mention the reasons for the decision, the minister undoubtedly aims to clarify the distinction between members of the defense and security forces, as well as personnel of the United Nations System, and members of non-profit organizations. Confusion could expose people and property to security risks.
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These organizations can present themselves as entities whose purpose is to carry out a humanitarian, social, or cultural mission without primarily aiming for personal enrichment. They include associations, foundations, and non-governmental organizations.
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