Biya Declared Winner Amidst Fear, Silence in Yaounde Under Heavy Security

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Fear and an almost total silence gripped the capital city of Yaounde after incumbent President Paul Biya of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) party was officially declared the winner of the 2025 Presidential Election.

**Empty streets along Cameroon’s Capital Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The Constitutional Council’s announcement on October 27 came amid heightened national tension following the Oct. 12 vote, with opposition leaders having previously claimed victory and called for protests, citing alleged widespread irregularities.

Major streets in Yaounde, were noticeably empty, save for a scattering of taxis and motorcycle riders circulating. The quiet was profound, with no music being played and conversations among those on the move reportedly hushed and guarded.

While the city’s thoroughfares saw minimal or no activity, a different atmosphere prevailed around the CPDM Headquarters. The party’s base was marked by celebrations of the declared victory, though the festivities were contained by a heavy police presence throughout the immediate vicinity.

The broader security posture was even more visible across key city districts. The environment was tense in areas from Mokolo Market through Carriere to Tsinga and Bisquitere, where heavy military equipment and personnel were stationed at nearly every major junction. The deployment appeared aimed at deterring and combating any civil unrest or demonstrations from opposition supporters.

Despite the formidable security cordon, small groups of residents were seen standing together, engaging in earnest discussions strictly among themselves. In residential quarters, a few choice spots had been quickly transformed into makeshift beer parlors, where the results and ramifications of the presidential election served as the exclusive topic of conversation.

Biya, 92, has ruled the Central African nation since 1982, making him one of the world’s longest-serving heads of state. His latest victory grants him an eighth term, extending a tenure that has been repeatedly criticized by opposition politicians and international observers for systemic electoral fraud.

Biya, 92, Re-Elected President With 53.66% Of Vote

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Veteran President, Paul Biya, at 92, has officially secured another term, extending his four-decade rule after being declared winner of the 2025 presidential election, the nation’s Constitutional Council announced Monday October 27.

Attended by national and international dignitries, Biya, one of the world’s oldest and longest-serving leaders, claimed a decisive victory with 53.66 percent of the vote, according to figures released by the council, headed by Clément Atangana. The election saw over 2.4 million Cameroonians cast their ballots for the incumbent leader, Paul Biya.

Issa Tchiroma Bakary of the Cameroon National Salvation Front, CNSF party, emerged as the main challenger, taking second place with 35.19 percent of the vote, representing more than 1.6 million voters.

The remaining candidates trailed significantly. Cabral Libii of the PCRN party came third with 3.42 percent. Bello Bouba Maigari of the UNDP party followed with 2.45 percent. Patricia Tomaino Hermine of the CDU party was fifth, and Joshua Osih of the opposition Social Democratic Front (SDF) came in sixth with 1.21 percent among others.

Biya won six of the country’s ten regions, while Tchiroma claimed four. Tchiroma did, however, secure a majority of votes cast in diplomatic missions abroad, across Africa and other parts of the world.

The regional breakdown showed Biya winning the Center, East, Far North, Northwest, Southwest and South. Tchiroma’s victories were in the Adamaoua, Littoral, North and West regions.

Biya’s highest vote totals were recorded in the South Region, where he won 90.86 percent, and the Northwest Region, where he secured 86.31 percent. The turnout of the election was 57.7 percent.

It should be noted that the results were already widely disseminated on social media before the Constitutional Council’s official proclamation.

Dzekwa Rangers’ Louis Berka Nets Hat Trick in 4-1 Rout at BSFC Day Three

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The third day of the annual Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) 2025 saw thrilling action, drama, and a seven-goal haul across two pivotal matches, allowing teams to solidify their positions in the early stages of the tournament.

**Louis Berka (in yellow with the ball) in action** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The marquee match of the day featured a dominant performance from Dzekwa Rangers, who secured a decisive 4-1 victory over Nso Youths (NYFC).

The game began with both sides exerting considerable pressure, but it was Rangers’ prolific striker Louis Berka who broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, putting his team on the scoreboard.

NYFC’s determined efforts to find an equalizer were stifled, and the first half ended with a narrow 1-0 advantage for Dzekwa Rangers.

**Dzekwa Rangers and NYFC in action** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The second half belonged entirely to the Rangers. Despite NYFC multiplying their chances to level the score, Berka proved unstoppable. He netted his second goal in the 53rd minute and completed a magnificent hat trick with his third in the 76th minute, effectively putting the game out of reach.

Jumbam Lesly sealed the massive win for Dzekwa Rangers in the 89th minute with a well-placed fourth goal. NYFC managed a late consolation goal in extra time, but it merely reduced the deficit in the 4-1 defeat.

Melim United, Chitah FC Settle For 1-1 Draw

The second fixture was a tighter affair as Melim United and Chitah FC battled to a 1-1 draw, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

Chitah FC missed a golden opportunity to take an early lead after securing a penalty, but the shot was brilliantly saved by the Melim United goalkeeper, denying them the advantage.

**Chitah FC and Melim United battling** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Melim United capitalized on the let-off when Divine Shamlon unleashed a powerful, dipping shot from outside the box in the 17th minute, registering the first goal.

Melim carried the 1-0 lead into halftime. Chitah FC emerged with renewed determination in the second half, pressing constantly for the equalizer.

Their persistent efforts finally paid off in the dramatic final moments of the game. After securing a free kick, Chitah converted the opportunity in the 89th minute to balance the score and force the 1-1 parity.

Following Monday’s crucial results, the league table has a new leader. Dzekwa Rangers now tops the classification with five points.

They are closely trailed by Melim United, who also holds five points, with the two sides separated only by a goal difference in favor of the Rangers.

Chitah FC currently sits in the third position with three points, while Nso Youths (NYFC) is anchored at the bottom of the table, still seeking their first victory with just one point from their outings.

Intense Battles Expected As 13th Bui Sports Fans Competition Enters Day Three

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

As the 13th edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) reaches its halfway point, anticipation is building for the crucial third day of play on Sunday, October 26.

Four teams are set to clash in a bid to significantly improve their positions on the leaderboard, with both fixtures scheduled to take place at the Lycee General Leclerc stadium. Kickoff for the double-header is set for 1 p.m.

The day’s main event features a highly competitive Group encounter between current table-toppers Melim United and an eager Chitah FC.

Melim United, having secured a solid four points from their first two matches (a win and a draw), will be looking to press their advantage and maintain their winning momentum.

A victory in this fixture would elevate them to an impressive seven points, further solidifying their position at the summit of the group and taking a major step in their first round of the competition.

However, Melim United will face a determined Chitah FC, a side still hunting for its inaugural win of the tournament after settling for two consecutive draws against Dzekwa Rangers and Nso Youth FC.

Chitah FC knows the urgency of turning draws into wins and will need to be clinical in the attack while shoring up their defense. Melim United is renowned for its swift transitions and is poised to capitalize on any defensive lapses.

“The match between Melim United and Chitah FC promises to be one to watch,” commented a league analyst. “Both teams are acutely aware of the stakes and the potential group implications, and fans can expect an intense, tactical battle on the pitch with a high chance of goals.”

The second match of the day will feature Dzekwa Rangers squaring off against newcomers Nso Youth FC. Both teams are still in search of their first victory in this year’s competition, making this a genuine six-point game.

Dzekwa Rangers have managed two draws so far, demonstrating resilience, while Nso Youth FC has recorded one draw and one loss, placing them under immediate pressure.

Dzekwa Rangers will aim to maintain their unbeaten streak and build on the performance of their formidable squad, which recently secured a point against Chitah FC.

Their experience might give them a slight edge. Meanwhile, the youthful Nso Youth FC understand the urgency of avoiding another defeat that would all but put frustrations in their first-round quest.

They will need to approach the match with determination, resilience, and a focused strategy to secure maximum points and lift themselves off the bottom of the table.

As the standings currently reflect after two games, Melim United leads the group with four points. Dzekwa Rangers and Chitah FC sit in second and third place, respectively, each with two points.

Nso Youth FC currently occupies the bottom position on the table with just one point. The results of Sunday’s fixtures are therefore highly significant, promising a thrilling day of football that will redefine the group’s dynamics.

Persistent Internet Disruptions Frustrate Cameroonians Amid Elections

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon is experiencing significant disruptions to internet connectivity that have lasted for several days, severely impacting individuals and businesses reliant on online access for their daily operations.

While network operators have not issued an official statement, many Cameroonians suspect the outages are a subtle tactic by the government during the current election period.

“Since this morning, I haven’t been able to work because internet comes and goes,” a city resident stated. “You can’t explain what is happening, but we are suspecting that it is the handiwork of the government.”

Another resident stated, “This is an election period, and the government might be doing this to restrict people from connecting. Since voting day, the internet has been very, very slow.”

The impact on the economy is clear as a businessman in Yaoundé complained, “I can’t do anything because my work depends solely on the internet. I have not been able to work since morning.”

At press time, Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL) issued a press release regarding technical incidents involving WACS cable equipment in Limbe that occurred in the early hours of October 23.

The leading telecommunications company indicated that ongoing efforts are progressively restoring internet access across the country. “We will continue operations until all traffic is fully restored and secured,” CAMTEL stated.

Yaoundé Markets Flooded as Anxiety Grows Over Election Results

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Markets in Yaoundé have been flooded with residents buying food supplies as fears grow about the aftermath of the October 12 presidential election results.

**Partial view of city dwellers in Mokolo market in Yaounde** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

While unconfirmed rumors had announced October 23 as the proclamation day, a widely circulated communiqué on social media, signed by the President of the Constitutional Council, Clément Atangana, stated that the results will be proclaimed on Monday, October 27.

This date is the final day specified by the Electoral Code for the Constitutional Council to declare the results, which must be announced 15 days after the election.

However, the uncertainty surrounding the election results proclamation day has led to heightened anxiety among citizens, prompting many to take precautions. On Wednesday, October 21, markets, especially in Mendong and Acacia, resembled the eve of Christmas Day, reflecting the urgency of city dwellers to stock up on essentials.

“I need to buy food and keep it at home because I don’t know what will happen after the results are announced,” one resident said while hurrying through the market. Another added, “Cameroon is scary, and we need to prepare. We are hearing a lot of rumors, and I’m afraid. I want to secure food for my family so we can stay indoors if things go wrong.”

Among the most sought-after items are non-perishable staples such as rice, cooking oil, beans, and corn—products residents believe can sustain their families for an extended period should unrest ensue.

Many expressed concerns about civil unrest or instability following the announcement of the results. Amid heightened security concerns, several school administrations have reportedly instructed pupils and students to remain home, with a tentative return to classes scheduled for Monday.

Political tension across Cameroon continues to mount. One of the presidential candidates, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, has repeatedly and publicly claimed victory since the polls closed. Incumbent President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982, was seeking an eighth term in office against a field of 11 opposition candidates.

Cameroon now awaits the final, constitutionally mandated announcement from the Constitutional Council, hoping for a peaceful conclusion to a period of intense uncertainty.

Cameroon Constitutional Council Rejects Election Petitions

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Cameroon Constitutional Council has rejected all petitions filed by candidates seeking to annul the October 12 presidential election, citing alleged irregularities. The petitions were rejected following the hearing of the council that took place on October 22 in Yaounde.

Members of Constitutional Council in session

Eight petitions were submitted by opposition parties, civil society groups, and other election stakeholders, with complaints ranging from alleged ballot-stuffing to voter intimidation.

During lengthy hearings, Council President Clément Atangana remarked that although some petitions were deemed “valid in form,” their arguments did not provide adequate justification. Additionally, other petitions were classified as “not valid.”

The council’s decisions are final and cannot be appealed. Initially, 11 petitions were filed; however, three presidential candidates later withdrew their complaints, leaving eight for consideration.

Self-proclaimed presidential candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, 76, did not file any petition, claiming the process was compromised since council members were appointed by President Paul Biya.

These rulings pave the way for the announcement of the final election results, which, according to the Electoral Code, must be disclosed on or before October 27.

In the meantime, clashes have erupted in several regions, particularly in the Far North, where protesters have confronted police forces.

Dzekwa Rangers, Chitah FC Battle To A Thrilling 2-2 Draw In Bui Sports Fans Competition

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The highly anticipated clash between Dzekwa Rangers and Chitah FC in the ongoing Bui Sports Fans Competition lived up to its billing, concluding in a thrilling 2-2 draw.

**Team battling for Supremacy** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The match, which counted as the second day of play, was a spectacular, nerve-striking contest between two teams widely considered the strongest in the competition.

Dzekwa Rangers were the first to make a move, pulling ahead with the opening goal of the match. A beautifully delivered corner kick paved the way for the strike.

Following the goal, Dzekwa pressed hard, attempting to double their tally with multiple offensive pushes, but their efforts were continually thwarted by a staunch Chitah defense.

Chitah FC fought diligently to equalize the deficit. Their sustained pressure was intense, yet time and again, their forward momentum was skillfully halted by the vigilant Dzekwa defensive line, leaving the score at 1-0 going into the break.

The second half began with a renewed vigor from Chitah FC. Their perseverance paid off when they finally responded, capitalizing on a poorly positioned Dzekwa defense to level the scoreline.

Shortly after, Chitah’s struggle to take the lead materialized. They were awarded a penalty kick, which was confidently converted, shifting the momentum and giving them a 2-1 lead.

**Chitah FC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This turnaround sparked urgency in both camps, pushing the teams to intensify their offensive play and create more goal-scoring opportunities.

The match looked set to end in a victory for Chitah FC, but Dzekwa Rangers had one final push left.

With barely a few minutes remaining on the clock, Dzekwa managed to break through, scoring a crucial equalizer to end the dramatic encounter in a 2-2 stalemate.

**Dzekwa Rangers FC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The result sees both teams share the points, keeping the competition finely balanced as the tournament moves into its next phase.

BSFC, Bringing Solace To Displaced Cameroonians Fleeing Anglophone Crisis

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

On a quiet Sunday morning, while many across the capital are attending church service, Stephen is just returning from what he described as a “hectic” journey.

**Teams battle for supremacy during the 13th edition of BSFC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

His pallid face and cracked, dry lips tell a silent story of hardship, a burden familiar to the thousands displaced by the protracted crisis in Cameroon’s Northwest and Southwest Regions.

Seeking a brief respite, Stephen, an Internally Displaced Person (IDP), sat down with a neighbor, Amza, also an IDP.

As Stephen sipped cold water, the two men cast their minds back to their villages, homes they haven’t seen in nearly seven years because of the crisis.

**Teams battle for supremacy on watery arena during the 13th edition of BSFC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Theirs is a common, sorrowful narrative in Yaoundé—a sense of loss tempered by the enduring hope of returning home.

“It’s been seven years that I haven’t been to the village to see my people. I feel disconnected, but there is nothing I can do,” Amza said, summarizing the IDP experience.

To Edwin, a third neighbor who joined the conversation, the future remains uncertain. “We will soon go back, but I don’t know when. I am optimistic, but sincerely, I feel totally alone,” he lamented.

The conversation shifted when Marie, another IDP, stepped in with a suggestion: attend the ongoing Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC). She described it as a vital gathering place that fosters a sense of community.

**Curious fans and supporters stay glue to matches during the BSFC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I think it will be good for you and us to go and watch football matches, especially the BSFC. It will help you to divert your mind and also enable you to see longtime friends and even network,” Marie advised.

The BSFC, an annual tournament uniting sons and daughters of the Bui Division from the Northwest Region of Cameroon now scattered across the country, has rapidly evolved into a crucial psychological and social anchor.

More than just a football tournament, it has become a local nexus for networking, job searching, and, most importantly, emotional healing for the displaced population.

For many attendees, the competition serves as a powerful coping mechanism against the trauma of conflict. The sight of familiar faces and the shared passion for the game offer a temporary escape.

**Match officials and player kick of match under the rain in the 13th edition of BSFC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“Since I started attending this annual competition, it has helped me and even reduced the stress as well as the haunting pictures I have in mind concerning the ongoing crisis,” said Killian, a regular attendee.

John Mary, another IDP, highlighted the mental health benefits of the event. “Sports helps to release stress. I must say that I have been so happy attending BSFC and meeting people whom I haven’t seen since I fled the village. We have new stories to tell, and the time is never enough.”

He added that the collective celebrations and solidarity during the competition have helped him psychologically “to forget the trauma that I have been through in the hands of both the factions fighting.”

While the competition’s success in building morale is widely lauded, organizers face challenges, including securing sufficient funding and managing the logistics of hosting a large-scale event for a vulnerable population.

Still, for IDPs like Stephen, the sight of friends, the roar of the crowd, and the momentary feeling of belonging offer a necessary break from years of displacement.

Nonetheless, the simple act of cheering for a football team allows the displaced to exchange painful memories for new stories of hope and community.

BSFC Logo

According to many, the BSFC have proven that even in crisis, community and sport can provide a powerful path toward resilience. As its moto says, “community Sports for Peace and Development,” is all about BSFC.

RENAPROV’s Mutual Fund Offering Cameroonians A Path To Stability, Homeownership

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed on Thursday, October 17, 2025, highlighted that the fight against poverty encompasses dignity, justice, and belonging, rather than being solely about income.

This year’s theme emphasizes the need to end social and institutional mistreatment by ensuring respect and effective support for families, with the goal of prioritizing those who are furthest behind and building institutions that empower families to thrive.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres stressed the systemic nature of poverty, stating, “Poverty is not a personal failure; it is a systemic failure — a denial of dignity and human rights.”

In Cameroon, poverty remains both high and persistent, with approximately four out of every ten people living below the national poverty line.

The situation is exacerbated by significant regional disparities, particularly in the Far North and Northwest regions, where ongoing conflicts contribute to elevated poverty rates.

Despite some economic growth, progress in poverty reduction has been minimal, and projections suggest that the number of individuals living in extreme poverty is likely to continue rising.

In response to these challenges, local organizations are taking action. RENAPROV FINANCE S.A., a microfinance institution established in 1996, runs the MASO mutual assistance and solidarity program.

This initiative aims to provide financial and social services to mutual members who are often excluded from traditional banking systems. MASO facilitates personal and financial management, offering opportunities for socioeconomic development through a mutual benefit fund.

Members contribute small, regular amounts to a collective pool, fostering a solidarity-based funding structure.

These contributions enable access to essential services aimed at enhancing quality of life, including zero-interest financing for various projects and opportunities to win significant cash prizes.

The program also offers educational support, such as tuition discounts at the Bissai University Institute, healthcare access with discounts at the MAMU Hospital Complex, and assistance during life events, both celebratory and challenging. MASO encourages entrepreneurship by providing financing options for young entrepreneurs and individuals in the informal sector, helping them secure capital to start or expand their businesses.

Additionally, the chance to win prizes like houses, cars, and home appliances aims to help members build tangible assets as a pathway out of poverty.

While MASO has yielded positive results for many beneficiaries, with improved financial stability and increased ability to achieve goals like homeownership, the broader microfinance industry faces criticism regarding high interest rates and the risk of over-indebtedness among members.

Though MASO offers zero-interest financing on some products, the profit-driven nature of many microfinance institutions can restrict their ability to serve the most vulnerable populations effectively.

In Cameroon, despite the expansion of the microfinance sector, access to financial services remains limited, particularly in rural areas where poverty is most concentrated. Initiatives like MASO are crucial in bridging this gap, but ongoing support and responsible practices are essential for achieving sustainable poverty alleviation.

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