A significant announcement from Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, Director of the Civil Cabinet of the Presidency of the Republic, dated June 10, 2026, confirms the news.

President Paul Biya has officially designated Laurent Esso, the current Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals, as his personal representative for the upcoming funeral ceremonies of Alexis Dipanda Mouelle, the esteemed first President of the Supreme Court of Cameroon. This crucial decision underscores the importance of the late magistrate’s legacy in the nation’s judicial history and reflects the highest regard from the Cameroonian presidency.

The funeral rites for Alexis Dipanda Mouelle commenced on Monday, June 22, and are scheduled to conclude on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The initial days, from June 22 to Wednesday, June 24, involved a period of solemn contemplation and prayers held daily from 6 PM to 7 PM at the family residence located at Bastos crossroads in Yaoundé, the political capital of Cameroon. Today, Thursday, June 25, at 10 AM, the body will be removed from the Yaoundé General Hospital morgue, followed by formal judicial tributes at the Supreme Court, acknowledging his profound contributions to Cameroonian law.

Journey to Bonakou Bwapaki

Later this afternoon, at 3 PM, a mass will be celebrated at the Marie Reine des Apôtres Basilica in Mvolye, offering a moment of spiritual reflection. The day will conclude with an evening vigil at the family home. On Friday, June 26, 2026, the funeral procession will depart for his ancestral village, Bonakou-Bwapaki. Along the journey, a stop is planned at the family concession in Bonakouamouang, near Akwa in Douala, followed by a final vigil in his native village. The interment is scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026.

Alexis Dipanda Mouelle was a distinguished Cameroonian magistrate who left an indelible mark on the country’s judicial and political landscape. He served as the First President of the Supreme Court from 1990 until 2014, a tenure that solidified his influence and expertise. Born on March 25, 1942, in Bonakou Bwapaki, within the Littoral region, he passed away on May 4, 2026, at the age of 84.

Succession and distinguished career

After receiving his education at the University of Paris, Dipanda Mouelle began his career in the Cameroonian magistracy in 1965. He steadily advanced through the ranks, eventually becoming Secretary-General of the Ministry of Justice in 1975. In 1986, he was appointed to lead the Supreme Court, a position later formally recognized as First President. He held this prestigious role for 24 years until his retirement on December 31, 2014, when he was succeeded by Daniel Mekobe Sone. His career reflects a deep commitment to justice and the rule of law in Cameroon, a testament to his enduring legacy in African politics and jurisprudence.