Minister Ousmane Mey & New UNDP Representative, Mathieu Ciowela Take Stock, Discuss Priorities

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon Minister of the Economy, Planning, and Regional Development, MINEPAT, Alamine Ousmane Mey, and the new UNDP Resident Representative in Cameroon, Mathieu Ciowela, have assessed the current situation and charted a new path for future programs.

**Alamine Ousmane Mey and Mathieu Ciowela, new UNDP Resident Representative in Cameroon charting during the audience** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This outcome follows the audience granted to Mathieu Ciowela by Minister Ousmane Mey on July 29 in Yaoundé. Speaking after an hour-long closed-door session, the new UNDP representative lauded the “fruitful discussions” and stressed the strong relationship between Cameroon and UNDP.

“First, I paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency to introduce myself as the new Resident Representative of UNDP in Cameroon and also to take the opportunity to learn more from him on the priorities and challenges that Cameroon is facing,” Ciowela stated. He added that the meeting was also an opportunity “to appreciate the progress already made in the implementation of the current UNDP program in the country.”

Ciowela outlined the UNDP’s program in Cameroon, which is structured around three key pillars: sustainable economic growth (transformative and inclusive), inclusive governance and peace consolidation, and environment, climate change, and disaster risk management. With the current UNDP program, initiated four years ago, set to conclude next year, Ciowela highlighted the importance of discussing the upcoming program.

“We also acknowledged the collaboration between the Government of Cameroon and the UNDP and, above all, the confidence the Government of Cameroon has shown in the UNDP by including it in the implementation of a major program: the Presidential Plan for Reconstruction and Development in the Northwest, Southwest, and Far North Regions,” he affirmed. “This program builds better, but also offers hope and prospects for a brighter future.”

**MINEPAT and UNDP delegation pose for a family picture after the audience** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Regarding his mandate in Cameroon, Ciowela expressed his optimism, citing the “excellent cooperation” already in place as a solid foundation. “I will ensure that the ongoing program progresses, reaches its goals, and achieves all expected results,” he stated. “Secondly, I will strengthen the cooperation between the Government of Cameroon and the UNDP.”

He continued, “I am already satisfied with what has been done so far, and I would also like to work with the Minister to reinforce this cooperation. Furthermore, it’s really about ensuring that the support services the UNDP offers are of better quality.”

Mathieu Ciowela, from Democratic Republic of Congo, succeeding Opia Mensah Kumah in Cameroon. Ciowela brings extensive experience to the role, with a distinguished career marked by robust field expertise, strong administrative capabilities, and a proven record as a development strategist. He has made significant contributions in every country where he has served.

Since joining UNDP in 1990, Ciowela has risen through the ranks, holding key strategic positions across West and Central Africa, as well as at UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Africa in New York. Most recently, he served as UNDP Resident Representative in Burundi (2022–2024) and in Burkina Faso (2019–2022).

SECAM To Hold 20th Plenary Assembly In Kigali, Rwanda

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) will convene for its 20th Plenary Assembly from July 30 to August 4, 2025, in Kigali, Rwanda. The 2025 conference will take place under the theme: “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace.”

**Some Bishops and priests after Mass in Kibeho, Rwanda, during the SECAM Standing Committee meeting in Kigali, in November 2024** (Source: SECAM)

The plenary will bring together over 250 participants, including Cardinals, Bishops, Priests, Consecrated Men and Women, and Lay Leaders from across Africa and its islands, as well as partners from other continents.

According to Rev. Fr. Rafael Simbine Junior, Secretary General of SECAM, the Kigali Assembly will assess the progress made since the 19th Assembly, held in 2022 in Accra, Ghana, and chart a visionary course for the Church in Africa.

Key agenda items include the presentation of SECAM’s long-term vision document for 2025–2050, built around 12 foundational pillars such as evangelization, family leadership, youth engagement, care for creation, digital mission, and political responsibility.

The conference will also include a pastoral reflection on accompanying Catholics in complex cultural realities, including polygamous unions, and discussions on governance, justice, peace, interfaith dialogue, climate change, and safeguarding.

The Assembly will also unveil the Triennial Strategic Plan (2025–2028) and initiate the renewal of SECAM’s leadership in line with its constitution.

Cameroon’s Election Body Greenlights 13 for Presidential Race

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The independent body charged with organizing elections in Cameroon, ELECAM, have made public a shortlist of 13 candidates cleared to contest in the nation’s upcoming presidential election, slated for Oct. 12.

The publication was made public on Saturday July 26. Enow Abrams Egbe, chairperson of ELECAM’s Electoral Board, unveiled the much-anticipated list in Yaounde, flanked by his fellow board members and an array of high-ranking state officials. The public disclosure marked a crucial step in the country’s democratic process.

From an initial pool of 83 hopefuls who submitted their applications, the final 13 are notably led by incumbent, President Paul Biya, 92, representing the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) party. Biya, a towering figure in Cameroonian politics, seeks to extend his decades-long tenure.

Among the contenders who successfully navigated the rigorous vetting process are Joshua Osih, the standard-bearer for the Social Democratic Front (SDF); Akere Muna, a prominent legal mind of the UNIVERS party; Bello Bouba Maigari, representing the National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP); Tomaino Ndam Njoya of the Democratic Union of Cameroon (UDC); Cabral Libii, a youthful presence from the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation (PCRN); and Issa Tchiroma Bakary of the National Front for the Salvation of Cameroon (FNSC).

The list is completed by Serge Matomba of the United Party for Renovation of Cameroon (PURS); Pierre Kwemo of the Union of Movements for Socialism (UMS); Ateki Zeta Caxton of the Popular Action for Liberty (PAL); Iodi Hiram Samuel of the Front for Democratic Change (FDC); Bougha Hagbe Jean of the Movement for the New Cameroonian Conscience (MCNC); and Zipang Hilaire of the MP party.

Noticeably absent from the approved list is Prof. Maurice Kamto of the MANIDEM party. He is widely recognized who, running under the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) banner, emerged as the main challenger and runner-up in the 2018 presidential election.

His exclusion is likely to ignite fervent debate and considerable disappointment among his numerous supporters, who had eagerly awaited his inclusion. However, candidates whose applications were rejected will now have a final opportunity to appeal their cases before the Constitutional Council.

ELECAM’s data sheds light on the geographical distribution of candidacies, with 56 submissions originating from the central region, followed by 10 from the Littoral Region. The Adamaoua Region accounted for five applications, while the West and South Regions each contributed three. The East Region saw two submissions, with the remaining regions each submitting one.

In terms of demographics, 56 candidates received endorsements from political parties, while 27 opted to run as independent candidates. A significant majority, 76, were male, with seven female candidates putting their names forward. Forty-seven aspirants were below the age of 51, indicating a mix of generational representation, while 36 were above 51.

Comparing with the previous election cycle, the 2025 race has drawn a notably higher number of aspiring presidents. In 2018, only 28 individuals initially filed applications, culminating in a field of nine candidates who competed in the election held on Oct. 7 of that year. At that time, 22 candidates were party-backed, and six ran independently.

Presidential Candidate, Tchiroma Bakary Outlines Vision For Cameroon’s Future

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Former Minister and President of the National Salvation Front Party, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, has announced that he would revise the electoral code if elected president of Cameroon.

**Issa Tchiroma Bakary, President of the National Salvation Front Party speaking during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Speaking at a press conference in Yaoundé on July 25, Tchiroma Bakary aimed to clarify public perception of his character, career, and vision for the country.

He stressed the need for a single ballot in elections and expressed his commitment to a single transitional presidential term, preparing to transfer power to a new generation.

He was accompanied by the Secretary General of the party, Jeanne Nsoga Sone and Communication officer, Dr. Chris Maneng’s.

“Today, I do not stand before you as an ordinary politician,” he said. “I stand before you as a citizen, a father, a patriot, and a candidate for transition. A transition that many Cameroonians, in their silent suffering, still hope for but hardly dare to believe in.”

Tchiroma Bakary also pledged to form a unity government that includes members from various political sides, civil society, and the diaspora. He plans to sign a national ethics charter focused on term limits, transparency, truth, and reconciliation.

He called for the establishment of a federal state to ensure better distribution of power and paid tribute to the nation’s founding father. He expressed his desire to provide every Cameroonian with the opportunity to learn a trade or profession.

**Tchiroma Bakary flank by SG and Communication officer during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“Training and preparing the youth for a successful generational transition is crucial,” he said. “What I expect from you now is not to take me at my word.”

Tchiroma Bakary noted he has been the target of numerous attacks in recent weeks, stating, “I solemnly declare here, I have never been a prisoner of any regime.”

He described his resignation from government as an act of conscience rather than political calculation. “I have been a servant of the state, but when Republican ethics disappear and the dignity of the people ceases to be a priority, I realized it was time to break away,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure as Minister of Transport, Minister of Communication, and Minister of Employment and Vocational Training, he detailed his achievements and stated his candidacy is not one of complacency. “I am a candidate to win this Presidential Election, and we mean it,” he said.

“I ask you to listen, to verify, to question, but above all, to dare to believe that a man can remain honest and upright,” he added. “Experience is not a crime, and loyalty to the people is stronger than loyalty to a regime.”

**Cross section of militants during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne Mengnjo)

Tchiroma Bakary extended his hand to the youth, the diaspora, and women, whom he described as the pillars of family and society.

“The time has come not just to campaign but to write history,” he said. “Together, let us reclaim our voice, reclaim our power, and prepare the next generation.”

Issa Tchiroma Bakary, born September 10, 1949, is a Cameroonian politician, statesman, and former railway engineer. He served as Minister of Employment and Vocational Training from 2019 to 2025 and held the positions of Minister of Communication from 2009 to 2019 and Minister of Transport from 1992 to 1996 under President Paul Biya.

Korea Boosts Cameroon’s Development Efforts With Vehicle Donation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Republic of Korea, through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), has significantly bolstered Cameroon’s development initiatives by donating five brand-new vehicles to the Ministry of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development (MINEPAT) and the Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reform (MINFOPRA).

**Donated vehicles lineup at the handing over site** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This strategic contribution aims to enhance the efficient execution and monitoring of crucial projects nationwide. The official handover ceremony took place on Wednesday, July 23, in Yaoundé, bringing together key officials including MINEPAT Minister Alamine Ousmane Mey, KOICA Country Director Kim Sangchul, and a representative from MINFOPRA among others.

During the ceremony, Korean Diplomat Kim Sangchul lauded the excellent bilateral relations between the two nations, emphasizing that the vehicle donation marks a significant milestone in their ongoing partnership and unwavering commitment to Cameroon’s sustainable development.

**KOICA Country Director, Kim Sangchul speaking during the event** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“This initiative is part of the broader framework of cooperation between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Cameroon,” he stated. Kim further stated that the vehicle donation is more than just a supply; it’s a strategic effort to ensure the effective monitoring and evaluation of projects directly impacting the lives of Cameroonians.

He highlighted that the vehicles allocated to MINEPAT will support initiatives to provide potable water in rural areas, a vital step towards improving health, sanitation, and livelihoods in underserved communities. For MINFOPRA, the vehicle will facilitate activities that raise awareness and strengthen capacity for public service transformation, ensuring a more efficient, transparent, and service-oriented administration.

**MINEPAT Minister, Alamine Ousmane Mey speaking during the ceremony** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“This donation underscores our mutual dedication to sustainable development and strengthens the cooperation between our two nations,” Mr. Kim asserted. “It emphasizes the importance of mobility in achieving project objectives and fostering ongoing partnerships. We believe that by supporting the effective implementation and sustainability of these projects, we are investing in a brighter, more resilient future for Cameroon.”

Minister Alamine Ousmane Mey, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the donation, acknowledging the more than 60 years of excellent cooperation ties. “I would like to place today’s action in the wake of the shared concern to ensure better project monitoring,” Minister Ousmane Mey said. “It also aims for better monitoring of operations by the relevant teams.”

**Handing over of cars keys to the government of Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He underscored that this contribution of rolling stock is likely to facilitate field missions and ultimately guarantee better overall performance, thereby strengthening the sustainability of the structures.

Among the so many projects funded by KOICA, Minister Ousmane Mey revisited two major ongoing projects sponsored by the Republic of Korea: rural water supply and progress in the implementation of work in four campuses managed by MINFOPRA. He affirmed that these operations align with Cameroon’s National Development Strategy, which aims for the country to become emergent by 2035.

**Officials posed for a family picture** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Both dignitaries highlighted that the Republic of Korea has consistently supported Cameroon through various instruments and in priority sectors such as education, renewable energy, access to potable water, e-government, agriculture, and rural development. Looking ahead, it was revealed that more than 20 Cameroonian civil servants will embark on a master’s scholarship program in Korea this year, with further capacity-building initiatives also planned.

Cameroonian Youth Leaders Shine At World Youth Development Forum 2025

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Five youth leaders from Cameroon have excelled at the 2025 edition of the World Youth Development Forum in China with their innovative projects. The forum took place from July 14 to 19 in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, under the theme, “Unleash Youth Potential for Global Development.”

**Cameroonian youth leaders at the WYDF**

At the opening ceremony, the 100 Excellence Actions of the Action Plan for Global Youth Development 2025 were unveiled, and the Acceleration Week for Global Youth Development was officially launched.

The participation of Cameroonian youth leaders was made possible through the mentorship provided by the local NGO, Royal Boys and Girls of Africa (ROBOGA).

Nkemcha Martin Tiku, the National Coordinator of ROBOGA, had his youth training and mentorship initiative selected as one of the 100 Excellent Actions for Global Youth Development (APGYD) 2023.

As the only Cameroonian among 100 youth representatives from over 60 countries, Tiku expressed his commitment to increasing Cameroonian participation in future editions.

The second edition of the forum, launched in August 2024, saw ROBOGA’s BKA CHALLENGE initiative mobilizing 10 alumni with impactful projects. These individuals received guidance and mentorship on the application process, resulting in four Cameroonian youth leaders being selected for their projects at the APGYD 2025.

The selected projects include: Akikeze Anangmbi – A million pens for peace campaign; – Senke Yannick Tresor – Commitment and Youth Impact in Saving Lives through Voluntary Blood Donation; Nembo Ekong – Education for Displaced Girls in Rural Communities; Mache Dolores – Panet One – MBOA HUB

By promoting these exceptional initiatives, the APGYD actively supports international youth actions and fosters youth empowerment, contributing to a community with a shared future for mankind.

**Cameroonian youth leaders posed for a family picture at the 2025 WYDF**

The World Youth Development Forum serves as a crucial platform for young people worldwide to engage in discussions aimed at promoting global development. The forum seeks to harness the collective strength of youth to implement the Global Development Index (GDI).

During the inaugural edition of the World Youth Development Forum in November 2023, Tiku recognized significant opportunities provided by the forum.

The 2025 edition took place alongside the Acceleration Week for Global Youth Development Programs and featured 200 youth programs focused on sustainable development. These programs addressed issues such as poverty alleviation, food security, digital technology, climate action, green development, inclusive education, youth leadership, health and well-being, employment, entrepreneurship, and partnerships for the goals.

During the forum, delegates engaged in thematic sessions focused on green consumption and sustainable development, artificial intelligence and technological innovation, and the protection and preservation of cultural heritage. A series of workshops, training camps, and field visits were also held.

**Officials and youths from all over the world posed for a group picture at the 2025 WYDF**

This program is hosted by the All-China Youth Federation, with support from organizations such as ILO, FAO, UNESCO, UNICEF, UNDP, UNFPA, UNCCD, the UN in China, ASEF, and various global partners.

The World Youth Development Forum is a vital platform for young people to contribute to global development and foster youth engagement in promoting sustainable initiatives.

The initiative to establish the WYDF was announced by President Xi Jinping as a significant step toward realizing the Global Development Initiative and the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Action Plan for Global Youth Development has covered 43 countries across six continents since its launch in 2022.

Logidoo Unveils Upgraded Afridoo ERP Platform To Power African E-Commerce Growth

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Logidoo, a full-service logistics provider, has officially launched a new version of Afridoo, its Enterprise Resource Planning, ERP platform designed specifically for African e-commerce and retail businesses. The unveiling took place during VivaTech 2025, held from June 11 to June 14 at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

Tamsir Ousmane Traoré, CEO of Logidoo, described Afridoo as “a game-changer for African merchants.” He stated, “We designed it to be simple, connected, and scalable. This new version integrates logistics, payments, and e-commerce into one powerful tool.”

The enhanced Afridoo platform introduces a suite of new features and integrations aimed at helping merchants streamline operations and expand their reach across the continent. The platform now offers native integration with Shopify, WooCommerce, and YouCan, allowing merchants to Manage inventory in real time, automate order confirmation, Track deliveries through Logidoo’s fulfilment network, collect payments, including cash-on-delivery and digital methods.

Having already been adopted by over 180 merchants, Afridoo provides a seamless solution for SMEs and online sellers looking to grow their businesses within and beyond African borders.

Operating in nine countries—including Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Guinea, Morocco, Tunisia, Cameroon, Benin, and Togo—Afridoo is fully integrated with Logidoo’s logistics infrastructure, ensuring reliable fulfillment and delivery services to end customers.

Afridoo also includes: Logistics cost calculation and route optimisation, Localised payment gateways and remittance tracking, Custom reporting dashboards, API access for third-party platforms and marketplaces.

Available as a white-label solution, Afridoo caters not only to individual merchants but also to institutions, development programs, and retail groups aiming to digitize their networks.

Developed by Logidoo, Afridoo is an African-built ERP platform that supports e-commerce operations, inventory management, fulfillment, and payments across nine countries, benefiting over 180 merchants.

CAMTEL, International War College Discuss Cybercrime Combat Strategies

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL) and the International War College (IWC) of Yaoundé have shared insights on combating cyber criminality. This exchange occurred during the IWC delegation’s visit to CAMTEL on July 21.

**Cross section of CAMTEL officials and delegation of IWC posed for a family picture** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The delegation was received by Francis Ottou, Technical Adviser No. 1 at CAMTEL. It was led by Brigadier General Valerie Nka, Commander of the Yaoundé International War College. The group primarily consisted of trainees from the college.

During the visit, Ottou welcomed the distinguished guests, noting that after more than 25 years of public service, CAMTEL’s investments and contributions to national development have prompted vital reflections on being a strategic operator amid data leaks, artificial intelligence, hybrid threats, ransomware, and information warfare.

“Cybercrime never sleeps,” Ottou emphasized. “It doesn’t require a visa or a rifle. It operates remotely, often in the shadows of the law, in grey areas where economic interests, strategic sabotage, and political activism intersect.”

**Francis Ottou, CAMTEL’s Technical Adviser No. 1 speaking during the visit** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He acknowledged that while the realm of cybercrime is virtual, its consequences are tangible. “CAMTEL has chosen not to be a victim. We have taken action against the inherent vulnerabilities of any national digital infrastructure. Our response includes reinforcing software defenses, complying with regulatory requirements, ensuring network redundancy, and establishing human responsibility chains.”

Ottou also highlighted the crucial role of defense and security forces, whose vigilance is essential for protecting physical infrastructures. “Each time territory is secured, each relay is protected, and each criminal act is prevented or neutralized, the entire chain of national connectivity remains intact.”

**Brigadier General Valerie Nka, Commander of the Yaoundé International War College speaking during the visit** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“The modern war knows no borders,” he stated. “It involves both armaments and software, radars and data centers, command chains and optical fibers. We may not wear the same decorations or uniforms, but we share the same goal: national resilience.”

“At IWC, you manage the fronts. At CAMTEL, we manage the flows,” Ottou added. “But fundamentally, we share the same obsession: preserving continuity.”

**CAMTEL hands gift to Brigadier General Valerie Nka** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He noted that the visit strengthens ties between CAMTEL and IWC, reminding all that new threats are emerging. “No institution can tackle these challenges alone. The future lies in intelligent alliances among civil, military, diplomatic, and digital expertise.”

Brigadier General Nka praised CAMTEL for its efforts, stating that the visit is part of the leadership and management module at IWC. He highlighted that the college, celebrating its 20th anniversary, has trained approximately 900 officers from Cameroon and friendly African nations, as well as from Europe, including France, the United States, and China.

**Cross section of trainees from the IWC during the visit** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“We are currently reflecting on an integrated strategic culture where not only defense forces but also civilians and other stakeholders contribute to shaping a cohesive national, subregional, and African strategic identity,” Nka added.

***Brigadier General Valerie Nka handing gift to Francis Ottou of CAMTEL*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

During the visit, CAMTEL presented on “CAMTEL and the Protection of Personal Data in the Face of Cybercrime.” The visit concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing trainees to deepen their understanding of CAMTEL’s efforts to combat multifaceted threats and secure communications in Cameroon and beyond. The IWC delegation consisted of trainees from Cameroon, other African countries, and Europe.

2025 Presidential Elections: Prof. Kamto Exits CRM Party, Vows Loyalty To Cameroonians As He Joins MANIDEM Party

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Prof. Maurice Kamto has officially announced his resignation from the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) as he prepares to run for the upcoming presidential elections under the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM) party. Speaking at a press conference in Yaoundé on July 19, Kamto stressed that his choice was made after thorough analysis and reflection.

**Presidential Candidate, Prof. Maurice Kamto speaking during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Accompanied by Anicet Ekane, the President of MANIDEM, and Hon. Jean-Michel Nintcheu, the Interim Coordinator of the Alliance for Change, Kamto explained that his decision aligned with the scientific rigor and legal frameworks surrounding electoral candidacies in Cameroon.

He noted that after careful consideration of the political landscape and the challenges surrounding his candidacy, resigning from the CRM was the most appropriate course of action.

Kamto stated, “The MRC could have legally presented me as its candidate, and I could have even gathered the 300 signatures required to run as an independent. However, the political debates surrounding my candidacy had become politicized, prompting me to reevaluate my position.” He referenced the experiences of other candidates, such as Akere Muna and Cabral Libii, who faced similar challenges in prior elections, concluding that a new approach was necessary.

**Anicet Ekane, the President of MANIDEM speaking during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He sent his resignation letter to the CRM on June 25, 2025, officially joining MANIDEM two days later. On July 16, he was nominated by MANIDEM as its candidate for the presidential election scheduled for October 12, 2025. Kamto expressed his belief in MANIDEM’s commitment to the total emancipation of Cameroon, highlighting its resilience amidst the country’s political turmoil.

“My decision stems from a desire to listen to the Cameroonian people, who have called on me from all regions and the diaspora,” he said, emphasizing that he aims to dispel any illusions about the legitimacy of his candidacy. Kamto declared, “I will, without failure, be an official candidate in the next presidential election. The people of change have their candidates.”

**Hon. Nintcheu, Prof. Kamto and Ekane during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He urged the Electoral Board (ELECAM) to adhere to Article 80 of the Electoral Code, which mandates the publication of the national electoral list. Kamto encouraged Cameroonians, both at home and abroad, to remain engaged in the electoral process by collecting their electoral cards and identifying their polling stations. “On D-Day, let us vote for hope and change,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of monitoring votes and fighting electoral fraud.

**Prof. Kamto speaking during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Kamto called for unity among the citizens, stating, “On October 12, let us use the ballot to save our beloved Cameroon from the disaster that has persisted for too long.” He expressed his willingness to collaborate with members of the ruling party, CPDM, who he believes could contribute positively to the nation if given the opportunity.

Anicet Ekane, President of MANIDEM, echoed Kamto’s sentiments, emphasizing that the Union for Change 2025 represents a collective effort against corruption, violence, and societal division. He urged the public to consider the suffering of those adversely affected by the current political climate and to set aside prejudices for the greater good.

Hon. Nintcheu noted the shared history of Kamto and Ekane as former political prisoners, underscoring the significance of their collaboration in the current political climate. Observers have praised Ekane’s decision to support Kamto despite their past disagreements, viewing it as a moment of political maturity.

**Hon. Nintcheu, Interim coordinator of the Alliance for Change speaking during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Kamto’s strategy is seen as a direct response to Cameroon’s restrictive electoral system, which has historically undermined opposition parties. By aligning with MANIDEM, a smaller yet legally recognized party, Kamto aims to navigate the challenges imposed by the current regime, which has systematically targeted the MRC through bans on rallies and arrests of activists.

In reaction to Kamto’s candidacy, government figures have expressed anger. Grégoire Owona, Minister of Labour and Social Security, labeled Kamto’s move as divisive. He warned, “The fire you wish to light, know that we will all feel its heat.”

**Officials of the CRM party during the press conference** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Opposition supporters, however, remain undeterred. One supporter, Akem Florent, responded online, stating, “The people will dictate their law at the ballot box. You have stolen their will for too long.”

Signs of dissent are also emerging within the CPDM, with notable figures resigning in response to disillusionment with the party’s direction. Njikeu Hortense, a sitting CPDM deputy, recently submitted her resignation, causing shockwaves within the party.

As Cameroon approaches the elections, Kamto’s move to MANIDEM signals a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape, highlighting the ongoing struggle for democratic representation and the will of the people as indicated by political analyst.

Over 30 Candidates Eye Cameroon’s Presidency As October 2025 Elections Approach

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

As Cameroon prepares for the pivotal October 2025 elections, over 30 candidates have expressed their intent to lead a new republic. In a flood of activity over the past week, various candidates—including the incumbent, President Paul Biya of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM)—have submitted their candidacy files in accordance with established electoral laws.

Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) recently released a list outlining the candidates who have deposited their files. The ruling CPDM, which presents two candidates, will face significant competition from notable opposition parties such as the Social Democratic Front (SDF), the Union of Democratic Forces (UDC), the National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP), and the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) among others.

President Biya, who is seeking re-election for an unprecedented eighth term, is in the CPDM ticket alongside Leon Theiler Onana who also declared himself. Meanwhile, Hon. Joshua Osih, the National President of the SDF, is gearing up for his second presidential run following his participation in the 2018 elections.

Notably, Professor Maurice Kamto, the runner-up in the 2018 presidential race, will now run under the banner of the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM) instead of the CRM. Additionally, both Issa Tchiroma Bakary, of the FSNC, and Bello Bouba Maigari of the UNDP (recently resigned Ministers) will be contesting after exiting their coalition with the CPDM.

Other candidates who have submitted their files include Tamaino Ndam Njoya of the UDC, Cabral Libii Li Ngue of the PCRN, and Barrister Akere Muna Tabeng of the Univers Party among others.

Remarkably, four women have also entered the race: Genevieve Zeh Amvene (independent candidate), Tamaino Ndam Njoya (UDC), Eliane Veronique Eboutou (PNACC), and Mbengono Zouame epse Ndzie Ngono Guyleine (independent candidate).

In total, six candidates are running as independents, while 22 represent various political parties. According to electoral regulations, ELECAM will verify all submitted documents, including a required deposit of FCFA 30 million, before forwarding the candidates’ files to the Constitutional Council.

Section 125(1) of the electoral code grants the Electoral Board the authority to accept or reject candidacies. Should a candidacy be rejected, Section 125(2) mandates that the Director General of Elections inform the candidate of the reasons for the rejection. Furthermore, candidates have the right to appeal such decisions to the Constitutional Council as outlined in Sections 128, 129, and 130.

Section 126 stipulates that the Electoral Board must publish the list of approved candidates no less than 60 days before the election. If any candidate dies or is disqualified post-publication, Section 128 allows for their replacement by another candidate from the same political party, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

As the election date approaches, the political landscape in Cameroon is poised for intense competition, with a diverse array of candidates vying for the presidency.

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