In Cameroon, the limited duration of parliamentary sessions has become a growing concern. Journalist Guibai Gatama questions whether the National Assembly can effectively fulfill its constitutional missions with just three annual 30-day sessions.

Guibai Gatama challenges the operational framework of Cameroon’s National Assembly. The journalist argues that the current legislative calendar—restricted to three annual 30-day sessions—falls short of enabling lawmakers to properly exercise oversight over the government, pass laws, or represent citizens’ interests.

He points out that, in reality, plenary sessions often last barely two weeks per session, totaling just six weeks of active work annually. This, he contends, is grossly inadequate given the pressing political, economic, and social challenges facing Cameroon today.

To strengthen his argument, Guibai Gatama draws comparisons with several African nations. He highlights Chad, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire, where parliaments meet for eight to nine months each year, and Nigeria, where the legislature operates almost continuously.

“Time for a genuine debate on parliamentary session length in Cameroon,” urges the journalist

Describing the National Assembly as appearing “detached from the nation,” the founder of L’Œil du Sahel newspaper calls for urgent discussions on reforming the legislative calendar. He believes extending session durations would enhance public oversight, improve legislative scrutiny, and better align institutions with citizens’ daily concerns.