The 12 October presidential election in Cameroon sees 92-year-old President Paul Biya eligible for re-election, while key opposition figure Maurice Kamto's exclusion raises questions regarding fairness in the electoral process. Analysts highlight the need for a united opposition to challenge Biya's long-standing rule.
Paul Biya Cleared to Run for Eighth Term Amidst Opposition Controversy
Paul Biya Cleared to Run for Eighth Term Amidst Opposition Controversy
The electoral landscape in Cameroon is heating up as the constitutional council excludes opposition leader Maurice Kamto from the upcoming presidential election, paving the way for President Paul Biya to seek another term.
Cameroon's political arena is brimming with tension as the constitutional council has confirmed that opposition leader Maurice Kamto will not participate in the 12 October presidential election. This decision comes just as 92-year-old President Paul Biya, who has held power since 1982, prepares to run for his eighth term in office. Should Biya win another seven-year term, he could potentially lead the nation until he is nearly 100 years old.
Kamto's exclusion, attributed to an internal dispute within his party, has sparked public outrage. His legal team claims the political maneuvering is designed to eliminate serious contenders against Biya, thus consolidating the ruling party's hold on power. Of the 83 candidates who applied to run, only 12 received approval, with various reasons cited for the disqualification of the remaining candidates.
Among the noteworthy contenders still in the race are:
1. **Paul Biya**: At 92, he retains his position as the world’s oldest serving head of state and has never lost an election since multi-party politics resumed in 1990. Biya promises a focus on improving the lives of women and youth if re-elected.
2. **Bello Bouba Maigari**: A seasoned politician at 78, Maigari formerly served as Biya's first prime minister and has recently announced his independent candidacy after breaking off an alliance with the ruling party.
3. **Issa Tchiroma Bakary**: At 75, Bakary is another former ally of Biya who aims to present a reformist agenda after decades of serving in various government roles.
4. **Cabral Libii**: This vibrant parliament member is making his second attempt at the presidency after finishing third in the last election and promises significant changes for the nation.
5. **Akere Muna**: A noted anti-corruption lawyer and former candidate, Muna promises integrity and governance reform as he lays out his vision.
6. **Joshua Osih**: The newly leading figure of the Social Democratic Front, Osih hopes to revive the party's influence and introduce social reforms.
Despite the presence of these candidates, analysts remain skeptical about their ability to unseat Biya. Observers argue that the long-standing president has firmly entrenched himself within Cameroon's political landscape, making a loss seem improbable.
Calls for unity within the fractured opposition are growing, with many voices stressing the need for candidates to unite behind a single candidate to effectively challenge Biya. Without cooperation, experts warn, the opposition may risk further marginalization in a race where Biya's experience and resources offer him a significant advantage.
