Thousands of Southern Cameroon workers have boycotted celebrations to mark the International Workers’ Day.  Labor unions in Anglophone Cameroon have often demand better working conditions from La Republique du Cameroun and are presently seeking an independent state of West Cameroon. The International Workers’ Day, also known as the May Day, is marked on May 1 every year.

The rallies around the globe have sometimes turned violent as clashes erupt between people and police forces. The Bamenda city of Southern Cameroons was the scene of such rallies today Monday, when a group of pro La Republique workers attempted to defy a ban by the Cameroon Anglophone Civil Society Consortium and march to celebrate the day. The Consortium authorities have banned labour day celebrations in Southern Cameroons.

In Buea, CPDM workers assisted by security forces from French Cameroun made their way into the ceremonial ground backed by the controversial mayor and governor of the South West region and staged a pro government event.  Kumba was also the scene of boycott, with a handful of civil servants gathering at the BICIC junction pretending to be celebrating.

Manyus and Moghamos including the Balis also held rallies in their respective administrative units carrying banners that read, “For an Independent Southern Cameroon State.”

By Rita Akana