Cameroon Bars Main Opposition Leader from 2025 Presidential Race
Cameroon’s top court has upheld a decision to disqualify Maurice Kamto, the leading opposition figure, from contesting the upcoming October 12 presidential election. The Constitutional Council, led by President Clement Atangana, confirmed the ruling on Tuesday, finalizing Kamto’s exclusion in a verdict that cannot be appealed.
Kamto, who was expected to be the main challenger to President Paul Biya, had lodged an appeal after being disqualified by the electoral commission in July.
Why Kamto Was Disqualified
According to the electoral commission, Kamto was disqualified because he was running under the MANIDEM party, which had also endorsed another candidate—violating electoral rules.
Despite appealing within the required two-day window, Kamto’s challenge was dismissed. He has not yet issued a public statement in response.
Human Rights Concerns Over Fairness of Election
The international community is watching closely. Human Rights Watch expressed alarm over Kamto’s exclusion, saying it raises serious concerns about the credibility of Cameroon’s electoral process.
“The decision to bar Kamto undermines trust in the fairness of the upcoming election,” the organization said.
Protests Erupt, Police Respond with Tear Gas
On Monday, dozens of Kamto’s supporters gathered outside the Constitutional Council building in Yaoundé, calling for his reinstatement. Police responded with tear gas and reportedly detained several demonstrators, who remain in custody, according to a police official.
This crackdown echoes past patterns of political suppression in the country, where opposition voices have faced increasing pressure.
Paul Biya: Africa’s Longest-Serving Leader Seeks Re-Election
President Paul Biya, now 92 years old, has ruled Cameroon for over four decades, making him the world’s oldest and one of the longest-serving heads of state. Last month, he officially announced his intention to seek re-election in October.
In the 2018 election, Kamto secured 14% of the vote, coming in second, while Biya claimed a landslide victory amid allegations of electoral fraud, which he denied.
What This Means for Cameroon’s Democracy
The rejection of Kamto’s candidacy raises international concern about the direction of Cameroon’s democratic process. Critics argue that by eliminating serious opposition contenders, the election risks becoming a one-sided race rather than a competitive democratic event.
Conclusion: Rising Tensions Ahead of Cameroon’s Presidential Election
With Maurice Kamto blocked from running and public protests escalating, Cameroon faces rising political tension in the lead-up to its 2025 presidential vote. As President Biya seeks yet another term, questions over democratic transparency, opposition freedom, and voter confidence loom large.
