By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
The United States Embassy in Yaoundé, Cameroon, has called upon all election stakeholders to engage in the electoral process in a manner that promotes peace, respects the rule of law, and upholds democratic norms. The statement, issued on July 12, came in response to the official announcement of Cameroon’s presidential election date, set for October 12, 2025.
“We commend the efforts of Cameroonian institutions, civil society, political parties, and all stakeholders working to prepare for these elections,” the Embassy’s statement read.
“We urge everyone concerned to engage in the electoral process in a manner that promotes peace, respects the rule of law, and upholds democratic norms and the rights of all citizens to participate freely and to vote their consciences without fear of repercussions.”
The US Embassy stressed the critical importance of the Cameroonian people having full confidence in their democratic institutions, not only on election day but throughout the entire electoral period.
“This includes protecting the fundamental freedoms of expression, assembly, and association as guaranteed in the Cameroonian constitution, electoral code, and other relevant statutes,” the statement indicated.
Furthermore, the Embassy noted that journalists, political parties, civil society organizations, and religious institutions must be allowed to operate without harassment or undue restrictions.
“We stand with the Cameroonian people as they take this important step along their country’s democratic journey,” the Embassy affirmed.
As a longstanding partner and friend of Cameroon, the United States underscored the importance of free, fair, peaceful, and inclusive elections as a cornerstone of democratic governance and stability in Cameroon and Central Africa.
Cameroon’s President Paul Biya officially convened the electorate for the October 12, 2025, Presidential Elections through a decree signed on July 11. According to the decree, polling stations across the country will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., providing a 10-hour window for citizens to cast their ballots.
The upcoming election has sparked widespread discussion, with many citizens hoping for change amid ongoing challenges, including economic difficulties and regional tensions in the Anglophone regions.
Political analysts predict a competitive race, as opposition parties prepare to challenge the long-ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), which has been in power for 42 years.
