Paul Biya reacts to military revolt in Yaoundé

Paul Biya has ordered his Defense Minister to enter into talks with disgruntled soldiers and to take urgent measures to solve their salary problem.

This was after the military went on a demonstration to demand the payment of their premium arrears amounting to about FCFA six billion on Wednesday.

A brief press conference was organized by Issa Tchiroma, the Minister of Communication and Spokesman of the government, on Wednesday, to make the announcement.

"The head of state and supreme commander of the army, has ordered for the appropriate measures to return the situation to normal. By this time, as I speak 4:50 p.m. (15h 50 GMT), I can assure you that this movement has ceased. Subsequently, high instruction from His Excellency, Mr. President, and the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defense went to the meeting of the military involved. This was in order to announce the decision of the head of state to arrange for the immediate payment and in anticipation of the coming regularization of the African Union, arrears premiums demanded to the tune of about FCFA six billion,” said Issa Tchiroma.

Long before, the government spokesman had indicated that the payment of premiums claimed by the military was the responsibility of the African Union. On the fate of the protesters, the Communications Minister stated that they returned to the ranks after having received, with appreciation, the message of Paul Biya.