Amanze Chinonye
Cameroon’s political atmosphere remains tense as the nation awaits the official announcement of the 2025 presidential election results, scheduled for Thursday, October 23, at 10:30 a.m. local time, by the Constitutional Council.
The election, held on October 12, saw 92-year-old President Paul Biya, Africa’s longest-serving leader, seeking an unprecedented eighth term after more than four decades in power.
His bid has been met with growing opposition and public fatigue over economic hardship, youth unemployment, and the unresolved Anglophone crisis that continues to destabilize parts of the country.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelOpposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former communications minister and leader of the National Front for Democracy and Progress, has declared himself winner of the poll and called on Biya to concede defeat.
“The people have spoken clearly at the ballot box,” Bakary said in a televised address last week, urging the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) to respect what he described as the “sovereign will” of the electorate.
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The ruling CPDM, however, has dismissed Bakary’s claims, insisting that only the Constitutional Council has the authority to declare results. Party officials have accused the opposition of attempting to incite unrest.
Election-related tension has escalated in several regions. Over the weekend, a CPDM office was reportedly set ablaze amid rising protests and confrontations between rival supporters. Security forces have been placed on alert in the capital, Yaoundé, and major cities such as Douala and Bamenda.
Analysts warn that Cameroon faces a critical turning point. With Biya’s age and decades-long hold on power, questions about succession and political transition loom large. “If the results are perceived as manipulated, the country could slide into another phase of political instability,” said a political commentator quoted by Africa 24 TV.
The October 12 vote was conducted under tight security, but opposition groups and civil society organisations reported instances of intimidation and logistical irregularities. International observers have yet to release a conclusive assessment of the poll’s credibility.
As Cameroonians await Thursday’s announcement, uncertainty grips the nation. Many citizens have expressed frustration over what they describe as decades of stagnation and unfulfilled promises under Biya’s rule.
The coming days are expected to determine whether Cameroon embarks on a new chapter of political renewal or continues under the leadership that has defined its modern history for more than 40 years.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
