Cameroon is set to go to the polls on Sunday, with President Paul Biya, at 92 years old, emerging as the favorite for an unprecedented eighth term in power. His tenure, which began in 1982, has seen him become the world’s oldest head of state, and yet he remains a formidable figure in Cameroonian politics.
As Cameroon prepares to cast its votes, it finds itself in a political landscape marked by fragmentation among opposition candidates—11 individuals have stepped forward to challenge Biya. However, the opposition has been significantly weakened. Notably, Maurice Kamto, the most credible opposition candidate, has been barred from running by court decision, fueling skepticism about the legitimacy of the electoral process.
Both Grégoire Owona, the labor minister and secretary-general of the ruling party, and Biya himself have dismissed the idea that the president’s age and health are impediments. Owona asserted in a recent radio interview that Biya is “in great shape” and capable of continuing his longstanding policies, dismissing criticism as politically motivated.
This election unfolds amid broader societal challenges. Cameroon grapples with high levels of poverty, as approximately one-third of its population lives on less than $2 a day. Youth unemployment remains rampant, leading many young people to feel disillusioned with the prospect of political change. The rising cost of living has also become a pressing issue, igniting social unrest within the country.
The election is framed against the backdrop of a fractured opposition and allegations of administrative bias. The electoral commission, known as Elections Cameroon, is perceived by many as being subservient to the ruling regime, raising concerns about the fairness of the electoral process. Many citizens are expressing a sense of futility in participating in a system that they feel does not represent their interests.
The reality of ongoing conflict in the country further complicates the political landscape. Jihadist violence in the Far North region and the anglophone crisis—which has led to thousands of deaths and displaced over 700,000 people—have led to decreased voter turnout in recent elections. The campaign has been notably characterized by calls for the government to prioritize security, particularly in regions most affected by violence.
Kah Wallah, leader of the Cameroon People’s Party, has been vocal in her critiques of the electoral process, arguing that it is unconscionable for the Biya regime to proceed with elections without ensuring security, particularly in the troubled anglophone regions. Her movement has refrained from supporting elections since 2018, highlighting the persistent instability that affects their legitimacy.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Biya’s recent public appearances have included promises to address pressing issues such as security, youth unemployment, and infrastructure improvements. In his only campaign rally, he claimed to understand the “unfulfilled expectations” of his citizens, asserting that these challenges are not insurmountable. His speech aimed to resonate with supporters who may be grappling with economic hardships.
Interestingly, this election cycle has also seen notable calls for Biya to step aside. Figures ranging from religious leaders to his own family members have expressed concerns regarding his continued fitness to lead. A striking moment came when Biya’s own daughter, Brenda Biya, publicly criticized his presidency on TikTok, stating that he “has made too many people suffer.” Although she later took back her comments, the sentiment resonates with a growing number of citizens frustrated with the status quo.
Younger voters in urban areas, particularly, have begun to voice their discontent openly. One 24-year-old artist from Douala described the election as a “scam,” expressing disappointment that the system remains unchanged. Many like him had hoped for a viable alternative in Kamto, illustrating a yearning for genuine political reform.
In summary, Cameroon’s upcoming election reflects a complicated interplay of long-standing governance, economic hardships, and social unrest. Voter sentiment appears to be marked by disillusionment and a lack of faith in institutional change. As Paul Biya campaigns for yet another term in office, the question remains: can a nation poised for change continue to rally behind a leader who has overshadowed its political landscape for more than four decades? The unfolding electoral narrative offers insight not only into the current state of Cameroon but also into its potential future.
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