Kamto, who led the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) during the 2018 elections and finished second amid allegations of electoral fraud, was notably absent from the approved candidate list that only includes 13 out of 83 submissions. The electoral body, Elecam, did not provide any rationale for this controversial decision.
President Biya, who is 92 years old and has ruled for nearly 43 years, remains undeterred by mounting pressure to step down, stating he believes he still has contributions to make for the benefit of the Cameroonian populace. He faces competition from two of his former allies, who are perceived as strong contenders due to their support in the north.
Kamto had recently shifted to the Manidem party in hopes of participating in the election after his previous party was disallowed from endorsing any candidates due to its non-representation in local councils. Others cleared to run include Akere Muna, Joshua Osih from the Social Democratic Front, and Cabral Libii, alongside Patricia Tomaino Ndam Njoya, the only female candidate.
Those excluded from the race have a window of two days to challenge the decision at the constitutional council.
President Biya, who is 92 years old and has ruled for nearly 43 years, remains undeterred by mounting pressure to step down, stating he believes he still has contributions to make for the benefit of the Cameroonian populace. He faces competition from two of his former allies, who are perceived as strong contenders due to their support in the north.
Kamto had recently shifted to the Manidem party in hopes of participating in the election after his previous party was disallowed from endorsing any candidates due to its non-representation in local councils. Others cleared to run include Akere Muna, Joshua Osih from the Social Democratic Front, and Cabral Libii, alongside Patricia Tomaino Ndam Njoya, the only female candidate.
Those excluded from the race have a window of two days to challenge the decision at the constitutional council.
