Yaoundé paid its final respects to Marcel Niat Njifenji this Thursday during a solemn ceremony at the Yaoundé General Hospital mortuary. Family, relatives, administrative authorities, and political figures gathered to honor the memory of the former President of the Senate, who passed away on April 11, 2026, at the age of 91.
Marcel Niat Njifenji, who served as the second most important figure in the state for over a decade, leaves behind a significant institutional legacy. Trained as an engineer and former Director-General of SONEL, his career is marked by a variety of government positions before his election as head of the Senate in 2013, during the creation of that institution.
A native of Bangangté, in the Western region, Marcel Niat Njifenji was an influential figure in the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (RDPC). His political commitment was demonstrated through various roles, including that of Mayor of Bangangté and Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Mines, Water and Energy in the early 1990s.
The career of Marcel Niat Njifenji is intrinsically linked to the recent political history of Cameroon, particularly to the establishment of the Senate as an essential component of the country's institutional architecture. His role as President of the Senate for thirteen years helped shape this institution and establish its legitimacy.
Following the tribute ceremonies in Yaoundé, Marcel Niat Njifenji's body will be buried in his native village of Bangangté this weekend. This event will mark the end of an important chapter in Cameroonian political life and offer his community the opportunity to pay him a final tribute.
The passing of Marcel Niat Njifenji comes just weeks after he left the presidency of the Senate. His political legacy and his role in establishing the Cameroonian Senate will remain etched in the country's history.
