Former President of The Senate Marcel Niat NjiFenji, Dies _Age 91
The passing of Marcel Niat Njifenji on April 11, 2026, has not only brought an end to his long public service, but also raises questions about the legacy he leaves after 13 years of leading the Senate and decades within the state system.
Njifenji died around midday, ending his political journey that included over five years in government and 13 years as President of the Senate. As the first person to lead the Upper House since its creation, he became a central figure in shaping how the institution functioned.
Throughout his tenure, he was known for maintaining order and ensuring continuity in parliamentary proceedings.A senior member of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), Njifenji was often seen as closely aligned with the state system. Supporters say he helped build the Senate into a stable institution during its early years, guiding its rules and reinforcing its role in governance.
Born in Bangangté in 1934, Njifenji trained as a roads and bridges engineer before entering public service. He first rose to prominence as head of the National Electricity Company (SONEL), which he led from 1974 to 1984. His career later expanded into politics, where he held key government roles.
In 1990, he was appointed Minister of Planning and Territorial Administration, and in 1992, he became Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Mines, Water, and Energy. These positions placed him at the center of national decision-making during a period of economic and institutional changes in the country.
Njifenji also experienced a major setback in 1984 following the failed coup attempt against President Paul Biya. Although not directly linked to the events, he was arrested and detained during the crackdown. He was later released in 1989 and reinstated as head of SONEL.
At the local level, he served as Mayor of Bangangté from 2002 to 2007. His last public appearance in June 2025 during a Senate session, where he briefly stated “I am here,” has since become a statement of his dedication to duty.
