Cameroon’s long-serving President Paul Biya is seeking an eighth term in Sunday’s election, a victory that could extend his rule until nearly age 100. Biya, who has held power since 1982, faces mounting frustration over his decades-long leadership and a notable challenge from his former government spokesperson, Issa Tchiroma Bakary.
Biya’s government abolished presidential term limits in 2008, and he has since won re-election by wide margins amid persistent allegations of vote rigging and judicial manipulation—charges his administration denies.
The 91-year-old leader, who rarely appears in public, made his only campaign appearance this year in the northern city of Maroua on Tuesday. Addressing supporters, Biya acknowledged complaints about poor infrastructure and unreliable electricity in the resource-rich country.
“I am aware of the problems that concern you,” he said. “These challenges are not impossible to overcome.”
Former Ally Turns Opponent
Tchiroma, once Biya’s employment minister and government spokesperson, defected in June and has since mounted an energetic campaign criticizing Biya’s management of Cameroon’s oil and cocoa wealth.
“Their failure is everywhere,” Tchiroma said at a rally. “Cameroonians are tired of this government’s mismanagement.”
Analysts say Tchiroma has drawn large urban crowds but may struggle in rural areas where Biya’s ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) maintains a vast patronage network.
“If the enthusiasm at Tchiroma’s rallies translates into votes, change may be possible,” said political analyst Pippie Hugues. “But Cameroon has seen this kind of momentum before without any real outcome.”
Raoul Sumo Tayo, a senior researcher with the Institute for Security Studies in Pretoria, noted that the ruling party’s strong grassroots operation makes another Biya victory likely. “Nevertheless, Tchiroma has shown a remarkable ability to mobilize support and challenge the system,” he said.
Twelve candidates are contesting the presidency, and Cameroon’s electoral law does not allow for a run-off — meaning the top vote-getter on Sunday will win. Official results are expected within 15 days.
Source:Africa Publicity
