Cameroon’s Opposition Leader Maurice Kamto Barred From Presidential Election
Electoral Body Approves Only 13 of 83 Candidates as 92-Year-Old Biya Seeks Eighth Term
Cameroon’s political landscape has been shaken by the exclusion of prominent opposition leader Maurice Kamto from the list of approved presidential candidates for the October 12 election. The country’s electoral body, Elecam, accepted only 13 of the 83 submitted applications, raising questions about the fairness of the electoral process.
Controversial Exclusion Without Explanation
No official reason was provided for Kamto’s disqualification, despite his strong second-place finish in the controversial 2018 election. That previous vote was marred by widespread allegations of electoral fraud favoring incumbent President Paul Biya.
The 92-year-old Biya, currently the world’s oldest serving president, was cleared to run for an unprecedented eighth term. Having ruled Cameroon since 1982, Biya continues to defy calls for his retirement, claiming he still has “much to offer” the nation.
Political Landscape and Key Candidates
The approved candidate list includes several notable figures:
- Issa Tchiroma Bakary and Bello Bouba Maigari: Two former Biya allies from the politically crucial northern regions
- Akere Muna: A prominent anti-corruption lawyer
- Joshua Osih: Leader of the Social Democratic Front (SDF)
- Cabral Libii: A sitting lawmaker
- Patricia Tomaino Ndam Njoya: The fiery mayor of Foumban and the race’s sole female candidate
Kamto’s Political Maneuvering
Kamto, who previously represented the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), was forced to seek nomination through the Manidem party after the CRM was barred from endorsing candidates due to its lack of parliamentary or local council representation.
This latest development continues a pattern of political exclusion that has characterized Cameroon’s electoral process. Disqualified candidates have a narrow two-day window to appeal the decision through the constitutional council.
The upcoming election will be closely watched by international observers, particularly given Cameroon’s history of contested elections and the advanced age of its long-serving president. With Kamto’s exclusion, many are questioning whether the playing field can be considered level for the remaining candidates.
Source: BBC News