Macron Breaks the Taboo, Admits France Launched a "War" in Cameroon
French President Macron formally admitted that France waged a "war" against a rebellion movement in Cameroon before and after its independence in 1960. The word "war" had never been used in previous official French statements, which once again shows that Macron wants to increase transparency regarding France's colonial history.
According to AFP, in a letter made public on Tuesday addressed to Cameroonian President Paul Biya, Macron said, "Today, I have the responsibility to take into account France's role and responsibilities in these events." This letter marks a turning point in the history of the two countries.
In January, a report by historians was submitted to Macron. Macron agreed with the conclusions of this report. The report "clearly shows that there was a war in Cameroon, during which the colonial authorities and the French army carried out various forms of repressive violence."
Furthermore, Macron added, "With the support of the French actions against the Cameroonian independent authorities, the war continued after 1960."
In July 2022, the French president announced the establishment of a Franco-Cameroon Joint Committee in Cameroon, aimed at clarifying the struggle conducted by France against the Cameroonian independence movement and opposition movements between 1945 and 1971.
The committee is led by historian Karine Lamine. Its report is part of President Macron's commemoration of France's African policy. Previously, Macron also received similar reports on Rwanda and Algeria, which also documented the dark chapters of France's policies in Africa.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1840299015702604/
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