Cameroon is facing significant violence and political tensions ahead of the October presidential election. Conflicts in the Anglophone regions, ethnic clashes in the South, and jihadist violence in the Far North signal escalating unrest. President Biya hints at re-election amid a divided opposition, further complicating the political landscape as the election approaches.
Cameroon is currently experiencing increased violence and political unrest, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming presidential election scheduled for October. The situation is marked by a significant intensification of conflict in the Anglophone regions and severe intercommunal clashes in the South, alongside a rise in jihadist violence in the Far North.
In the Anglophone regions, the military and separatist fighters engaged in heavy clashes throughout February. Notable incidents included a military raid on February 9 in Ndop, resulting in the deaths of two rebels, and the alleged killing of a separatist commander on February 16. Despite military offensives, separatist activities, including ambushes and kidnappings, continue in rural areas.
The South region witnessed escalating ethnic violence, particularly in Meyo-Centre village, where on February 20, local residents attacked and looted shops owned by non-locals after two civilians were murdered under unclear circumstances. Authorities have since initiated peace talks and taken measures to reduce tensions, but the region, previously stable, now faces increasing division.
In the Far North, violent activities attributed to Boko Haram and ISWAP militants have surged. The military reported killing five Boko Haram fighters on February 7, while numerous kidnappings of civilians occurred from late January onward. Local protests erupted over farmland expropriation concerns and dissatisfaction with government responses to ongoing issues.
As the presidential election approaches, President Paul Biya signaled his intention to seek re-election during a Youth Day speech on February 11, urging youth to vote against opposition efforts. Opposition figures have denounced Biya’s long tenure, claiming a history of unfulfilled promises. However, divisions among opposition factions complicate their challenge against Biya’s widely dominant ruling CPDM party. Amid escalating violence and political uncertainty, Cameroon is set for a potentially contentious election period in October.
Cameroon is encountering a tumultuous period marked by escalating violence and political upheaval as the October presidential election approaches. Key issues include intensified fighting in the Anglophone regions, rising ethnic violence in the South, and increased jihadist attacks in the Far North. President Biya’s potential re-election bid against a divided opposition adds further complexity, making the upcoming election fraught with challenges amidst growing unrest.
Original Source: www.cameroon-concord.com
