Cameroon’s 2025 presidential election signals potential change amid longstanding political dominance by Paul Biya and the RDPC. With Biya’s advanced age and declining health, succession battles and opposition unity become pivotal. The electoral landscape is characterized by government repression, external influences, and regional security issues, particularly in Anglophone areas. Increased citizen engagement efforts may offer opportunities amidst the challenges faced in this election cycle.
Cameroon’s 2025 presidential election appears to reflect its enduring political system, dominated by President Paul Biya since 1982. As Africa’s second-longest serving leader, he seeks an eighth term following a constitutional amendment in 2008 that eliminated the two-term limit. Biya’s party, RDPC, has maintained power since independence in 1960 despite nominally introducing multiparty elections in 1992.
Biya and the RDPC exert considerable control over state institutions, leading to allegations of election fraud. This environment led to the 2020 boycott of legislative elections by opposition parties. Supporters of opposition candidate Maurice Kamto faced arrests following protests against the controversial 2018 presidential election. In 2020, the government prohibited demonstrations, suppressing dissent.
The 2025 elections may mark a turning point, particularly given Biya’s declining health at age 91. His potential departure raises questions about succession within the RDPC, with Senate President Marcel Niat Njifenji poised to oversee a transition yet likely to maintain the status quo. The need for a unified opposition is emphasized within Cameroon’s electoral framework.
Notably, the opposition is rallying around Kamto, representing 30 parties in the Alliance politique pour le changement (APC) coalition. His platform focuses on improving health and education systems, alongside addressing socio-economic inequalities. However, the legality of his candidacy is jeopardized as legislative elections are pushed to 2026, creating significant hurdles after his party boycotted the last elections.
The lead-up to the election has seen increased repression, including arbitrary detentions and judicial proceedings against critics. Journalists critical of the government have faced severe crackdowns, evidenced by license suspensions and violent attacks. This oppressive climate threatens the longstanding inclusivity that aligns with Cameroon’s diverse cultural heritage.
Cameroon faces the challenge of addressing the escalating conflict in its Anglophone regions, where ongoing violence since 2016 has led to thousands of deaths and massive displacement. Depressed voter turnout in these areas could result in further marginalization of its English-speaking population.
Additionally, regional stability is at stake due to threats from militant groups in the north. Cameroon, alongside neighboring countries, must navigate these security challenges and the role elections play in legitimizing governance and engaging citizens.
Environmental concerns also loom large, particularly illegal logging in the Congo Basin. Effective government oversight is crucial to curtailing exploitation that harms biodiversity and threatens regional water cycles. Leadership during this election cycle could enhance national and regional safeguards.
Interference in the elections is anticipated, particularly from Russian-linked media promoting pro-government narratives. Historical support for Biya raises concerns regarding external manipulation of political processes in Cameroon, which will become increasingly evident as the election approaches.
Cameroon’s upcoming 2025 presidential elections reflect a critical juncture for the country. With Biya’s potential succession triggering internal party dynamics and heightened opposition collaboration, the elections could reshape political engagement. However, uneven political landscapes, external interferences, and sociopolitical ramifications in conflict-torn regions present considerable challenges. Ultimately, the ability of reformist forces to mobilize could significantly impact governance and societal stability in Cameroon, defining its future trajectory.
Original Source: africacenter.org
