81 Candidates Have Applied to Run in Cameroon Presidential Election
81 Candidates Have Applied to Run in Cameroon Presidential Election — Cameroon’s electoral body has received a record-breaking 81 applications from presidential aspirants ahead of the country’s highly anticipated elections scheduled for October.
The deadline for submission expired at midnight on Monday.
Among the unprecedented pool of candidates are prominent figures returning to the race, including Maurice Kamto, Cabral Libii, and Bello Bouba Maïgari — the latter making a second bid for the presidency after recently withdrawing support for the incumbent, President Paul Biya.
Notably, of the 81 declared candidates, only seven are women.
Female contenders include Eliane Véronique Eboutou, as well as independent aspirants Mbengono Zouame Epse Ndzie Ngono Guyleine and Géneviève Zeh Amvene.
“This year, we want to make history, not just participate,” said Eboutou, calling for greater representation of women in national leadership.
At 92, President Paul Biya, Africa’s longest-serving head of state, is once again seeking reelection.
Despite concerns over his age and health, Biya remains a dominant figure in the political landscape.
“President Biya’s resilience is remarkable,” said political analyst Jean-Michel Nkou, “but it raises serious questions about succession planning and democratic renewal.”
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Observers say the surge in candidate numbers reflects both a desire for change and a fragmented opposition.
“The sheer number of applicants signals growing discontent and a deepening divide among political alternatives,” said journalist Claire Bate.
However, skepticism lingers over the credibility of the upcoming election.
“Free and fair elections remain elusive,” Nkou added. “The system still overwhelmingly favors the ruling elite.”
Biya, who recently reshuffled military leadership in what analysts interpret as a strategic move to consolidate support, appears poised to maintain his grip on power.
“The military remains a crucial pillar of Biya’s continued dominance,” Bate noted.
The national electoral council is now tasked with vetting all submissions. It has until 60 days before election day to release the final list of approved candidates.
