The public shaving of journalist Souley Onohiolo, dubbed “Operation Tomber la barbe,” is set to take place following an eight-month wait for a government cabinet shuffle.
The veteran journalist had previously vowed to maintain his beard until President Paul Biya, who secured reelection on October 12, 2026, revamped the administration that has remained unchanged since 2019.
According to the organizing committee for the “Rasage Big Souley Onohiolo” project, the official ceremony will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 12:00 PM. The event is scheduled to take place at the BOTANIK’S beauty center, located in the Essos district of Yaoundé, where the editorialist and grand reporter will finally part with his facial hair.
The committee has indicated that the proceedings will be held under the patronage and general supervision of Dieudonné Mveng Balla. This unique event is expected to draw a significant gathering from the media landscape in Cameroun and beyond.
What began as a quiet, personal protest has evolved into a symbolic act of republican struggle. After eight months of allowing his beard and hair to grow without a government reshuffle in sight, Souley Onohiolo has decided to conclude his “capillary engagement.”
Organizers describe the act as a symbol of resistance and a mark of civic commitment aimed at influencing social change. The ceremony on July 3 will mark the end of this singular journey, witnessed by members of the press and those who have followed his symbolic protest from near and far.
