Maurice Kamto denounces 2025 presidential election exclusion as a political plot
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Maurice Kamto Condemns 2025 Presidential Election Disqualification as Political Conspiracy
Maurice Kamto, prominent opposition figure and former leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC), has publicly denounced his exclusion from the upcoming 2025 presidential elections. In a strongly worded statement, Kamto accused the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (RDPC) of orchestrating a calculated political move to remove him from the race. He described the decision as a premeditated act designed to suppress any serious competition and keep the ruling party in power.
Ruling Party Accused of Longstanding Suppression
According to Kamto, the RDPC’s plot to sideline him was not spontaneous but had been in motion for years. “The decision to sideline me was taken long ago by the RDPC regime,” he asserted. He recalled the MRC’s boycott of the 2020 legislative and municipal elections, which he said was interpreted by the government as a threat. Kamto claims the boycott was a form of resistance against what he described as manipulated and unfair electoral processes meant to weaken the MRC.
Criticism of National Electoral and Judicial Bodies
Kamto’s speech did not spare key national institutions. He openly criticized the Constitutional Council, the judiciary, and Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), accusing them of aligning with the government’s interest in undermining opposition candidates. He claimed these institutions have lost public trust due to their perceived bias and failure to operate independently. “These bodies have turned into tools of political suppression,” he charged, adding that they operate under the shadow of the executive branch.
Accusations Against Ministry of Territorial Administration
The opposition figure pointed to the Ministry of Territorial Administration as a leading force behind the alleged conspiracy to block his candidacy. Kamto claimed the ministry has consistently engaged in tactics aimed at frustrating his political ambitions, from administrative hurdles to legal obstructions. He argued that the ministry’s actions reflect a wider pattern of political intolerance that discourages fair competition in Cameroon’s democratic process.
UN and International Community Also Criticized
In a surprising turn, Kamto extended his criticism to international actors, particularly the United Nations. He alleged that the UN had signed a “secret agreement” with ELECAM on May 9, which he claimed was meant to give the appearance of electoral transparency while supporting a biased system. According to Kamto, this agreement undermines the credibility of the UN and places it in a position of complicity with the RDPC regime. “You were betrayed without remorse,” he told his supporters, referring to both national and international bodies.
Call to Continue Democratic Struggle
Despite the setback, Kamto reaffirmed his commitment to the democratic struggle in Cameroon. He called his exclusion a “political crime” against the people and urged citizens to remain vigilant and engaged. “This is not just about me; it’s about the future of our democracy,” he declared. Kamto’s defiance suggests that although he may not be on the ballot in 2025, he plans to remain a vocal critic and active figure in Cameroon’s political landscape.
Government Yet to Respond
As of now, the Cameroonian government has not issued an official response to Kamto’s allegations. The silence from state authorities has left many wondering whether the accusations will be addressed or dismissed. Meanwhile, Kamto’s supporters continue to express outrage and frustration over what they view as an intentional effort to silence one of the country’s most influential opposition leaders.
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