Cameroun President Ahmadou Ahidjo has called on the military forces and people of his country to preserve Cameroun unity.

SYNOPSIS: The President's first call came during a passing out parade for army personnel in the capital, Yaounde. The parade was part of a big military display attended by many leading government officials. Cameroun now has an army of 5000 men with another 10,000 in paramilitary forces.

Immediately after his arrival the President inspected the troops and complimented them on their dedication to duty.

During the parade 23 officers graduated from the Army Officers' training school and received their symbolic epaulettes from President Ahidjo. Because the Cameroun Navy only numbers 200, and its Air Force 300, the Government has consistently increased its defence budget in recent years in order to expand its armed forces.

Afterwards the President addressed the troops. He said that although national unity was a reality in Cameroun it was important that it be protected. Everyone, particularly the military, should be ever vigilant against subversive elements which might try to undermine the government of the nation, he said. This did not exclude malcontents outside the country who might wish to interfere with the stability of Cameroun. He went on to compliment every man serving in the forces for the way in which they were helping their country to develop and take its place in international affairs.

President Ahidjo echoed his words of warning when he attended the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Cameroun National Union. The major event was held outside the Union's headquarters in Yaounde and was attended by two thousand people. The Union is Cameroun's sole governing party and was founded on 1st September, 1966. President Ahidjo spoke about the democratic character of the National Union and pointed out that it was not a union of executives, but was meant to unite all citizens. In this way everyone could participate in the development of the country.