Cameroon’s President Paul Biya warns youth against opposition leaders promising change as 2025 elections approach. He urges them to reject allegations of chaos and unrealistic promises, all while maintaining control despite long-standing economic struggles and political repression. Youth disillusionment may lead to increased demands for democratic reforms and accountability in upcoming elections, potentially signaling a shift in Cameroon’s political landscape.
On February 10, 2025, as Cameroon prepared to celebrate its 59th National Youth Day, President Paul Biya delivered a pre-election address to the youth. Rather than propose solutions for their unemployment and economic difficulties, Biya cautioned against opposition leaders who promise a better future. He characterized figures like Maurice Kamto and Cabral Libii as “sirens of chaos,” warning the youth to ignore their unrealistic promises that could disrupt the nation.
Despite widespread expectations for Biya to announce his retirement, he reinforced his warnings against opposition figures, indicating his unease with their growing influence. He stated, “this year again, our country will hold important elections. Those of you who meet the legal requirements will have the opportunity to freely exercise your civic duty,” disregarding the allegations of electoral manipulation that mar Cameroon’s past elections.
Under Biya’s long tenure, the youth have faced serious challenges, including rising unemployment, economic decline, and unresolved separatist conflicts in Anglophone regions. His administration has been marked by repression of dissent, with threats to political opponents, suggesting that the real obstacles to stability may stem from his own regime rather than from opposition.
Leaders like Kamto and Libii are not only criticizing Biya’s rule but also advocating for democratic reforms aimed at reviving the nation’s economy and restoring trust in the electoral process. Their rising popularity threatens Biya, who has maintained power for decades, as their pledges resonate with a youth population seeking change and accountability.
As the October 2025 elections approach, many anticipate Biya will delay his candidacy announcement as part of political theatrics. His party will likely support him, while opposition voices will face intimidation and suppression, hindering fair competition in the electoral process. Many predict the electoral results will favor him, marking yet another round of contested governance.
Biya’s foremost concern, however, appears to be the youth who increasingly oppose his prolonged rule. These young Cameroonians are rejecting his narrative and actively working for change through social media and grassroots efforts. Their growing political engagement could signify a pivotal shift in Cameroon’s political landscape, which Biya may not be equipped to handle.
In summary, President Paul Biya’s recent address to Cameroonian youth serves as a warning against opposition leaders while highlighting his ongoing reluctance to acknowledge the country’s pressing struggles. His fears lie not with the opposition but with the youth’s potential to disrupt his long-standing rule as they seek a new political direction. The upcoming elections may reveal a pivotal moment for Cameroon as disenfranchised youth and reform-minded leaders challenge the status quo.
Original Source: www.cameroon-concord.com
