The electoral bodies have approved 12 candidates out of the 83 who initially submitted their applications. Paul Biya stands out as the oldest serving head of state globally, having ruled since 1982, and is seen as the frontrunner following Kamto's disqualification. With accusations of vote rigging shaping his previous victories, Biya has promised that his next term, if elected, will focus on the welfare of women and youth.
Other notable contenders include 78-year-old Bello Bouba Maigari, who has broken ties with Biya’s ruling party to run independently, and 75-year-old Issa Tchiroma Bakary, previously a supporter of Biya, who is making a bold challenge against his former ally. Both candidates' previous connections to the regime raise questions about their credibility among opposition voters.
Cabral Libii, who gained political traction in past elections, is perceived as a significant challenger to Biya’s incumbency. Akere Muna, another seasoned politician with a strong anti-corruption stance, is also in the fray, promising to restore the nation’s dignity in the global arena. Joshua Osih, representing the Social Democratic Front (SDF), is making another attempt at the presidency following a lackluster performance in the 2018 elections.
Analysts argue that despite the emergence of credible challengers, Biya's long-standing grip on power coupled with opposition fragmentation could ease his path to victory. With the need for a united front against Biya becoming increasingly evident, opposition leaders are urged to overcome personal rivalries for the good of the country. The current political climate also has observers speculating if Kamto can utilize his influence to help forge a coalition that could challenge Biya in this critical election.
In sum, the upcoming presidential election in Cameroon marks a pivotal moment for political change, but the path to unity among opposition candidates remains uncertain. If history is any indication, the fragmentation within the opposition could play right into Biya’s hands come election day.
Other notable contenders include 78-year-old Bello Bouba Maigari, who has broken ties with Biya’s ruling party to run independently, and 75-year-old Issa Tchiroma Bakary, previously a supporter of Biya, who is making a bold challenge against his former ally. Both candidates' previous connections to the regime raise questions about their credibility among opposition voters.
Cabral Libii, who gained political traction in past elections, is perceived as a significant challenger to Biya’s incumbency. Akere Muna, another seasoned politician with a strong anti-corruption stance, is also in the fray, promising to restore the nation’s dignity in the global arena. Joshua Osih, representing the Social Democratic Front (SDF), is making another attempt at the presidency following a lackluster performance in the 2018 elections.
Analysts argue that despite the emergence of credible challengers, Biya's long-standing grip on power coupled with opposition fragmentation could ease his path to victory. With the need for a united front against Biya becoming increasingly evident, opposition leaders are urged to overcome personal rivalries for the good of the country. The current political climate also has observers speculating if Kamto can utilize his influence to help forge a coalition that could challenge Biya in this critical election.
In sum, the upcoming presidential election in Cameroon marks a pivotal moment for political change, but the path to unity among opposition candidates remains uncertain. If history is any indication, the fragmentation within the opposition could play right into Biya’s hands come election day.
