YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon — August 6, 2025
Cameroon’s top constitutional authority has officially barred opposition leader Maurice Kamto from contesting the country’s October 12 presidential election, in a move decried by critics as politically motivated and detrimental to electoral credibility.
Kamto, who finished second in the 2018 elections behind longtime President Paul Biya, was seeking to challenge the 92-year-old incumbent again — this time as a candidate of the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM).
❌ Constitutional Court Rejects Kamto’s Bid
Kamto’s lawyer, Hippolyte Meli Tiakouang, confirmed the Constitutional Council ruled his candidacy invalid, citing electoral code requirements. Under Cameroonian law, presidential candidates must belong to political parties represented in parliament or municipal councils.
Kamto resigned from his former party, the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC), in June. The MRC had boycotted the 2020 legislative and municipal elections, leaving it without representation — thus triggering Kamto’s disqualification.
“His appeals were heard but ultimately found to be ‘unfounded,’” said Clement Atangana, President of the Constitutional Council.
Another MANIDEM candidate’s application was also rejected.
🗳️ Election Shadowed by Biya’s Dominance
President Paul Biya, in power since 1982, is seeking an eighth term. Despite his advanced age and long tenure, his grip on power remains firm, with opposition parties facing systematic suppression and legal hurdles.
Kamto’s exclusion comes amid a broader crackdown on dissent:
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Several individuals were arrested outside the Ministry of Territorial Administration on suspicion of “disturbing public order.”
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No media outlet was permitted to broadcast the Constitutional Council’s deliberations live.
⚠️ Concerns Over Democratic Credibility
In the lead-up to the ruling, Human Rights Watch warned that blocking Kamto from running would raise serious concerns about the fairness of the election.
“Excluding the most popular opponent will cast a long shadow over the electoral results,” said Ilaria Allegrozzi, senior Africa researcher at HRW.
The NGO noted that the move reflects a long-standing intolerance of opposition voices in Cameroon and cited increased repression of activists, political opponents, and lawyers since mid-2024.
🤝 Opposition Seeks Unity, Faces Obstacles
Facing mounting barriers, several opposition groups have pledged to unite behind a single consensus candidate, though no name has yet been announced. Kamto and MANIDEM President Anicet Ekane have not commented publicly on next steps, saying they are still “reflecting on the decision.”
✅ Approved Candidates So Far
According to Cameroon’s Election Commission, only 13 out of 83 submitted candidacies have been approved so far. Among them:
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Paul Biya – Incumbent President
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Issa Tchiroma Bakary – Former government spokesman
📌 Context: Cameroon’s Political Climate
Paul Biya is one of the world’s longest-ruling leaders, holding power for over 43 years. His presidency has been marred by accusations of authoritarianism, electoral manipulation, and press restrictions.
The exclusion of Kamto, widely seen as the most viable opposition figure, is likely to inflame international criticism and domestic discontent in the lead-up to what is already a heavily scrutinized election.
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