Faith Nyasuguta
Cameroon’s long-serving President, Paul Biya, has announced his intention to seek an eighth term in office, promising to address the “immense challenges” facing the nation. In his New Year’s address, Biya, who turns 92 next month, pledged to improve the living conditions of Cameroonians and ensure access to basic social services.
Biya’s announcement comes as the country prepares for presidential and regional elections later this year. The veteran leader, who has been in power since 1982, remains the only candidate of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM). Despite his age and health concerns, Biya’s supporters believe he is the best candidate to lead the country through its current challenges.
In his address, Biya acknowledged the pain and desolation experienced by many Cameroonians due to the lack of social amenities and the deterioration of the road network. He emphasized his commitment to improving governance across all sectors and stepping up the fight against corruption and misappropriation of public funds.
“Improving governance also means stepping up the fight against corruption and misappropriation of public funds. This ensures legal protection for private investment and land tenure security, where abuses have been noted,” he said.
Biya’s critics, however, argue that another term for the ailing leader is unrealistic. The Archbishop of Douala, Mgr Samuel Kleda, told Radio France Internationale (RFI) that another bid for Biya in the October 2025 elections “is not realistic.”
Critics also point to the ongoing conflict in the Anglophone regions, where a separatist insurgency has been raging since 2016. The conflict, which began as protests against perceived marginalization by the
Francophone-dominated government, has escalated into a full-blown insurgency, with armed groups calling for the independence of the English-speaking North West and South West regions.
Despite these challenges, Biya remains determined to seek re-election. He called on all stakeholders to show proof of maturity and responsibility and to ensure that peace and stability prevail before, during, and after the elections. “Together, we will continue to move forward with determination, in security and peace,” Biya said.
The polls management agency, Elections Cameroon (Elecam), announced that 7,845,622 Cameroonians had been registered to vote as of December 30, 2024. The voter registration window re-opened on January 1 and will run until August 31, in accordance with Section 74 (2) of the electoral law. Biya urged Cameroonians to participate in the electoral process and exercise their democratic rights.
Biya’s time in power has been marked by a combination of political stability and growing discontent. His administration has often been criticized for authoritarian practices, including the suppression of opposition parties, restrictions on press freedom, and the use of security forces to maintain control. Despite these criticisms, Biya has managed to maintain a tight grip on power, winning a series of elections that critics argue were marred by fraud and irregularities.
As the election approaches, Cameroonians are divided on whether Biya’s continued leadership is in the country’s best interest. While some believe that his experience and stability are crucial during these challenging times, others argue that it is time for new leadership to address the country’s pressing issues.
President Paul Biya’s announcement to seek an eighth term in office has sparked both hope and controversy among Cameroonians. As the nation prepares for the upcoming elections, the focus will be on whether Biya can deliver on his promises and lead the country towards a better future. The coming months will be crucial in determining the direction of Cameroon’s political landscape and the future of its citizens.
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