Intangible Cultural Heritage
Nguon, rituals of governance and associated expressions in the Bamoun community
Nguon refers to a series of rituals between the Mfon or monarch and his people Aimed at promoting dialogue harmony and peace the rituals are observed over a period of three days by the Bamoun community of Cameroons West Region Every two years in early December ritual chiefs consult the members of the community on the state of the kingdom Carrying the collected opinions they enter the palace at night and in secret on the agreed Friday to talk with the Mfon The following day the monarch attends a public trial on his governance with ritual chiefs reading out indictments based on the communitys feedback The Mfon may receive fines or even be removed from office If granted a new mandate he delivers an acceptance speech and receives the renewal of allegiance Popular celebrations follow culminating on Sunday with a parade and the monarchs triumphant return to the palace The practice is transmitted informally within families groups and secret societies as well as by the local radio station and Cameroons schools and universities Over six hundred years old the Nguon rituals are seen as a source of social cohesion and resilience and as a means of upholding values such as accountability freedom of expression and humility
Cameroon -