Cameroon's political landscape is heating up as the nation prepares for the presidential election scheduled for October 12. President Paul Biya, at the age of 92, is set to pursue an eighth consecutive term, despite facing significant scrutiny from opposition sectors.
The constitutional council recently upheld the decision of the electoral authority to exclude opposition candidate Maurice Kamto from the race, intensifying claims of political maneuvering within Cameroon’s political framework. Kamto’s disqualification followed a factional issue within his party, the Manidem party, after another individual emerged as a candidate, leading to angry responses from his supporters and legal team who view this as a politically motivated decision rather than a legitimate legal ruling.
Out of 83 candidates who applied for candidacy, only 12 met the criteria established by Elections Cameroon (Elecam), with the reasons for disqualification ranging from missing documents to financial issues. The competitive political scene now primarily features six main candidates, with Biya positioned as the likely favorite, given the removal of his closest rival.
Alongside Biya, prominent figures in the race include Bello Bouba Maigari, a former prime minister now vying for his own chance at the presidency, and Issa Tchiroma Bakary, both of whom have a history of political alignment with Biya. Meanwhile, younger candidates such as Cabral Libii, Akere Muna, and Joshua Osih attempt fresh stances and messages aimed at addressing corruption, social reforms, and better governance.
Political analysts are divided on the threat these candidates pose to Biya's long-standing grip on power, citing their previous affiliations with his regime as potential liabilities. Some believe that the fragmentation of the opposition, historically a significant challenge, could obstruct any effective unification against the ruling government party.
Calls for an opposition coalition have emerged, particularly in the wake of Kamto's exclusion. Activists suggest that a consolidated front might help provide a genuine alternative to Biya, recalling past instances where united opposition efforts led to considerable electoral near-successes.
The political climate leading up to the election remains volatile, rife with uncertainty about the opposition's ability to challenge a seasoned regime that has maintained its foothold in power for over four decades. As the election date approaches, political maneuvering, internal factions, and public discourse will continue to shape the outcomes of this critical moment in Cameroon's history.
