Cameroon’s civil society calls on voters to sanction Biya in upcoming elections
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Cameroonian leaders call on voters to reject 92-year-old President Paul Biya in the 2025 polls, citing democratic decline.
Calls for Change as Elections Near
With the October 2025 presidential elections approaching, Cameroon’s civil society is speaking out. A growing coalition of academics, civic leaders, and traditional authorities is urging the public to use the ballot box to end the decades-long rule of President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982.
A Public Appeal for Renewal
In a rare collective statement, the coalition appealed directly to Biya to step aside, or for citizens to vote him out if he runs. The group argues that at 92 years old, Biya’s continued leadership no longer meets the needs of a country facing urgent crises, from internal conflict to worsening poverty and corruption.
Symbol of a Stagnant System
According to the statement, Biya’s prolonged rule has come to symbolize a paralyzed political system, one increasingly disconnected from the realities of everyday Cameroonians. The coalition points to unresolved issues such as the Anglophone separatist conflict in the northwest and southwest regions, growing economic pressures, and the failure to implement anti-corruption reforms.
Debate Over Biya’s Legacy
The public appeal has reignited national debate. While some local mayors and traditional rulers remain loyal to Biya, citing his role in maintaining national unity and stability, others — including prominent religious figures — have called his continued candidacy unrealistic. They argue that holding onto power at this stage risks undermining Cameroon’s fragile democratic gains.
Shrinking Democratic Space
The lead-up to the 2025 election is already marked by reports of state repression. Human Rights Watch and other international observers have accused Biya’s regime of cracking down on opposition voices. Arrests of political opponents, censorship of independent media, and curbs on civil liberties have sparked concern that the election will not be free or fair.
Youth Disillusionment on the Rise
With over 65% of Cameroon’s population under the age of 30, the sense of frustration is mounting. Many young Cameroonians have only known one president their entire lives. While previous elections have been marred by allegations of fraud and low turnout, this new generation is increasingly vocal in demanding a shift in governance.
A History of Resistance and Silence
Despite being Africa’s second-longest-serving leader, Biya has rarely engaged directly with public sentiment. Past elections have seen him win by large margins amid allegations of irregularities. His administration has often silenced dissent through arrests and intimidation, creating an environment where public opposition carries significant risk.
A Tipping Point for Democracy?
Activists now see 2025 as a potential turning point. They are calling on all citizens, especially the youth, to mobilize and vote. Civic education campaigns are being organized to counter voter apathy and ensure that the electorate understands the stakes. Civil society leaders stress that rejecting Biya’s rule at the polls would be a peaceful but powerful act of resistance.
Biya’s Enduring Grip on Power
Despite criticism, Biya’s grip on the state apparatus remains strong. He controls the military, key judicial appointments, and the national electoral commission. These structural advantages make it difficult for the opposition to mount a credible challenge — a reality that reformers acknowledge, even as they push for change.
Hope Amid Uncertainty
As the election draws closer, many Cameroonians are watching closely to see whether Biya will formally declare his candidacy. Regardless of his decision, the current wave of activism is injecting new energy into the country’s political discourse. For many, the 2025 vote represents more than just a political contest — it is a test of whether change through democratic means is still possible in Cameroon.
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