At 92, President Paul Biya returns to the ballot amid the exclusion of key rivals, raising concerns over the fairness and openness of the impending election.
Cameroon has officially scheduled its presidential election for October 12, 2025, following a decree signed by President Paul Biya. The vote comes as the veteran head of state, who has ruled since 1982, declares his candidacy for what would be his eighth term.
Biya’s decision to run again was confirmed publicly in July via a post on his official social media account, in which he pledged commitment to meet the country’s urgent challenges. At his age, questions about his vitality and capacity to lead have become more pronounced, especially given extended absences from public view in recent years.
While more than a dozen candidates were said to have submitted applications, the field has narrowed. Notably, Maurice Kamto, who came second in the 2018 election with 14% of the vote, was disqualified by the electoral commission due to a purported violation involving his party’s endorsement rules. His appeal was upheld by the Constitutional Council, with the decision being final and not subject to further challenge.
The approved challengers include Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government minister who defected from the ruling party and campaigns on generational change. Bello Bouba Maigari, a veteran politician with ties to Cameroon’s political establishment, Cabral Libii, who appeals to younger urban voters, and Joshua Osih, the Social Democratic Front’s candidate with a focus on resolving the English-speaking regions’ separatist conflict.
Observers both inside and outside Cameroon have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. The sidelining of Kamto, seen by many as Biya’s strongest opponent, has fueled accusations that state institutions are being leveraged to limit genuine competition. Media rights groups warn that restrictions on press freedom, harassment of critical voices, and increased censorship have made it harder for opposition views to reach citizens.
In the lead-up to the election, some regions, especially in the Anglophone West, have witnessed tensions and disruptions. Separatist groups have enforced school closures in parts of the country, citing political instability, which could further restrict civic engagement.
Cameroon’s economy and security landscape also draw attention. International investors are watching closely, mindful of significant financing pressures. Cameroon faces a $1.6 billion budget shortfall and upcoming maturing sovereign obligations. Meanwhile, security challenges persist from Boko Haram in the north and the ongoing conflict in the English-speaking regions.
As Cameroonians head to the polls, many ask whether the vote will offer a genuine choice or simply reaffirm decades of continuity under one leader. The outcome is expected to influence not just domestic policy but also the country’s regional standing and investor confidence.
Source: Government of Cameroon, ELECAM