Welcome to the official blog of SA & Partners Law Firm! We’re going to delve into a crucial legal aspect that affects all citizens of Cameroon: the law on National Identity Cards (NIC). Law No. 90-42, passed on December 19, 1990, instituted the National Identity Card in Cameroon. Let’s explore the key provisions and implications of this law.
Section 1(2) – Mandatory Possession of NIC for All Citizens Aged Eighteen and Above
One of the central provisions of this law is found in Section 1(2). It stipulates that “Possession of National Identity Cards shall be compulsory throughout the country for all citizens aged eighteen or more.” In simple terms, this means that if you’re a citizen of Cameroon aged eighteen or above, you are legally required to possess a National Identity Card. This law emphasizes the word “possession,” which signifies that you must have your NIC with you at all times when requested by authorities.
Section 5(5) – Penalties for Non-Compliance
Section 5(5) of the same legislation outlines the penalties for failing to possess a National Identity Card. It states, “Whoever does not possess a national identity card shall be punished with imprisonment for from three months to one year or with a fine of from XFA 50,000 to XAF or with both such imprisonment and fine.” This provision makes it clear that non-compliance with the law can result in serious consequences, including imprisonment or fines.
The Importance of Possession
The intention behind this law is clear – you must have your NIC with you at all times, especially when requested by authorities. It doesn’t matter if you have your card at home or elsewhere; what matters is that you have it in your possession when required. Therefore, whenever you leave your house, it’s essential to carry your NIC with you to avoid legal complications.
Dealing with a Lack of Possession
Many of us have found ourselves in situations where we inadvertently left our NIC at home. When faced with this situation, it’s crucial to remain polite and cooperative when dealing with law enforcement officers. If you explain your situation and offer to call someone to bring your NIC to the scene, they may be more lenient. However, remember that the officers are within the confines of the law to enforce the requirement of immediate possession upon request.
Our Legal Advice
In such situations, it’s advisable to be courteous and explain your predicament to the officers. If they remain hesitant, you can consider reaching out to your attorney for further guidance. Our law firm, SA & Partners, is here to help you with any legal concerns you may have. We work with clients both in Cameroon and abroad, and we are committed to addressing your legal worries.
Share Your Experiences
We would love to hear about your experiences in situations where you were asked to present your NIC and how they were handled. Please feel free to share your stories and insights in the comments section below.
Stay Informed with SA & Partners
Stay tuned to our blog for daily updates about legal matters in Cameroon and around the world. If you have any legal questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Barrister Aloysius Seunang Awah
SA & Partners Law Firm
Email: info@seunangawahlawfirm.com
Thank you for visiting our blog, and we hope you find this information helpful in understanding the law on National Identity Cards in Cameroon. Your compliance with this law is essential to avoid legal consequences and ensure the smooth functioning of society.
