Maurice Kamto, a significant figure in Cameroonian politics, has been barred from the upcoming presidential elections, paving the way for Paul Biya's lengthy tenure to continue amidst criticism.
Maurice Kamto Excluded from Cameroon's Presidential Race Against Paul Biya
Maurice Kamto Excluded from Cameroon's Presidential Race Against Paul Biya
The prominent opposition leader faces disqualification as the challenge to Cameroon’s long-standing president intensifies.
Cameroon’s leading opposition figure and frequent challenger, Maurice Kamto, has been notably removed from the list of candidates for the presidential elections set for October 12. The National Elections Board of Cameroon, known as Elecam, accepted only 13 out of the 83 candidates who submitted their applications, with Kamto's disqualification raising eyebrows due to the absence of a stated reason.
The incumbent, President Paul Biya, who is 92 years old and holds the record as the world’s longest-serving president, is seeking to extend his nearly 43-year rule with an eighth consecutive term. Despite widespread calls for his resignation, Biya remains steadfast, asserting his commitment and ability to lead the nation.
In the last election in 2018, Kamto garnered significant support, securing second place amidst various allegations of irregularities and unfair practices during the tallying process. Previously representing the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), Kamto's party lost the ability to endorse a candidate this election due to its failure to maintain elected officials in local governance levels. Consequently, he has aligned himself with the Manidem party, which possesses local electoral representation.
Alongside Biya, two former confidants, Issa Tchiroma Bakary and Bello Bouba Maigari—both influential figures from the populous northern region—are expected to contest the presidency. The election lineup comprises other notable candidates, including anti-corruption attorney Akere Muna and Joshua Osih from the Social Democratic Front (SDF), along with lawmaker Cabral Libii. The only woman in the presidential race, Patricia Tomaino Ndam Njoya, serves as the mayor of Foumban.
As those disqualified from participating prepare to challenge their exclusions in the Constitutional Council within the next two days, the political landscape in Cameroon remains charged with the struggles between the ruling party and a fragmented opposition eager for reform.
The incumbent, President Paul Biya, who is 92 years old and holds the record as the world’s longest-serving president, is seeking to extend his nearly 43-year rule with an eighth consecutive term. Despite widespread calls for his resignation, Biya remains steadfast, asserting his commitment and ability to lead the nation.
In the last election in 2018, Kamto garnered significant support, securing second place amidst various allegations of irregularities and unfair practices during the tallying process. Previously representing the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), Kamto's party lost the ability to endorse a candidate this election due to its failure to maintain elected officials in local governance levels. Consequently, he has aligned himself with the Manidem party, which possesses local electoral representation.
Alongside Biya, two former confidants, Issa Tchiroma Bakary and Bello Bouba Maigari—both influential figures from the populous northern region—are expected to contest the presidency. The election lineup comprises other notable candidates, including anti-corruption attorney Akere Muna and Joshua Osih from the Social Democratic Front (SDF), along with lawmaker Cabral Libii. The only woman in the presidential race, Patricia Tomaino Ndam Njoya, serves as the mayor of Foumban.
As those disqualified from participating prepare to challenge their exclusions in the Constitutional Council within the next two days, the political landscape in Cameroon remains charged with the struggles between the ruling party and a fragmented opposition eager for reform.
