Cameroon’s National Assembly Speaker. Right Hon. Theodore Datouo has pledged to protect the family of late former Speaker, Cavaye Yéguié Djibril, assuring his children, widows and relatives that state support and benefits tied to the veteran politician would continue after his death.
Speaking during a visit to Mada in the Mayo-Sava Division, where funeral rites are underway, Datouo delivered a strong message of reassurance to Cavaye’s family, many of whom maintain close institutional ties to the National Assembly of Cameroon.
“The children of Cavaye should feel protected at the National Assembly. They should not think that my arrival means they will be removed. On the contrary, it is my duty to protect the orphans. They should feel reassured and protected,” Datouo said.
He also announced that monthly financial support previously granted to speaker Emeritus Cavaye would be maintained for his family.
“As former Speaker of the National Assembly, your late father retained certain rights at the National Assembly after his retirement, including monthly financial support. Do not be afraid. I will continue to ensure that this support is provided to help take care of the women and children. However, I ask one thing from you: remain united,” he told relatives during a private meeting.
The pledges go beyond symbolism, underscoring the state’s determination to preserve the legacy of one of Cameroon’s most influential and longest-serving political figures while ensuring his family remains under institutional protection.
Cavaye, who led Cameroon’s lower house of parliament for more than three decades, was widely regarded as a pillar of Cameroon’s political establishment and one of the most powerful political figures from the Grand North.
By Yerima Kini Nsom