Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) Marien Ngouabi Day: March 18
Marien Ngouabi Day is a public holiday in Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville).
Marien Ngouabi Day (alternative spelling, N’Gouabi) is celebrated in Republic of Congo every year on the 18th of March. Born on December 31, 1938 and died on March 18, 1977. Marien Ngouabi Day commemorates the life of Ngouabi who served as Congo’s military president from January 1, 1969 to March 18, 1977.
History of Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) Marien Ngouabi Day
In 1961, Ngouabi attended military school in Ecole Militaire Préparatoire and École spéciale militaire de Saint-Cyr in France. He returned to Congo a year after and was decorated Second Lieutenant while serving at Pointe-Noire. He was promoted to Lieutenant after only a year.
The start of the conflict between Ngouabi and the then President of Congo, Alphonse Massamba-Débat, began in the refusal of Ngouabi to serve again at Pointe-Noire. His decision has caused to lose his current rank and demoted to a second class rank on July 29, 1968. Massamba-Débat also ordered the incarceration of Ngouabi during that date. However, little did he know that his action only fueled the growing discontent of the military in his administration, so that, two days later, the military freed Ngouabi.
Ngouabi created the National Revolutionary Council (CNR) August 5, 1968 which effectively brought an end to Massamba-Débat’s governmental powers and forced him to resign in his post. Prime Minister Alfred Raoul briefly took the head of state position until December 31, 1968 when Ngouabi eventually served the presidency. Under his administration, Congolese Workers’ Party was the only political party that was legally allowed to exist. He also replaced the country’s name to People’s Republic of the Congo on December 31, 1969 during his time.
Ngouabi’s reign of power ended when he was assassinated on March 18, 1977. One of those who believed to have taken part in the assassination was Massamba-Débat, who was the president of Congo from 1963 to 1968. He was charged for treason and executed on March 25, 1977.
A day was dedicated to honor Ngouabi, hence, the annual celebration of Marien Ngouabi Day in the Republic of Congo on every 18th of March.
Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) Marien Ngouabi Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities
A special ceremony is held to commemorate the life of Ngouabi and his various contributions in the country. Government officials usually conduct wreath laying ceremony on monuments dedicated to the late president. Marien Ngouabi Day is one of the most important national holidays in Congo. Since it is a public holiday, it’s work-free.
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