Cameroon faces mounting uncertainty as it awaits the Constitutional Council’s announcement of the October 12, 2025, presidential election results, now set for Thursday, October 23.
The delay from an earlier date has intensified public anxiety, with competing victory claims from candidates fueling fears of unrest in the Central African nation. The single-round election, where the candidate with the most votes wins, has heightened stakes for all involved.
President Paul Biya, 92, who has led for 43 years, faces challengers like Issa Tchiroma Bakary of the Cameroon National Salvation Front (FSNC). Biya’s long rule has drawn criticism for authoritarian tactics, while Tchiroma, once an ally, now campaigns for sweeping change, galvanizing opposition supporters.
Rival Victory Claims
On October 14, Tchiroma, 79, proclaimed himself the winner in a social media address from Garoua, his northern base. Citing polling data, he declared, “The people have chosen, and their voice must stand.” His coalition of civic groups and smaller parties has sparked enthusiasm for reform, rallying crowds to demand transparency.
Biya’s Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) rejected Tchiroma’s claim as irresponsible, stressing that only the Constitutional Council can certify results.
Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji had warned before the vote that premature declarations could face severe consequences. Tchiroma, unfazed, vowed to uphold the people’s will, leaning on public support to counter threats.
These conflicting narratives have polarized Cameroonians. Tchiroma’s supporters praise his courage, while Biya’s loyalists defend the official process. Social media debates amplify tensions, raising concerns about protests as the announcement approaches.
Calls for Fairness
Tchiroma urged Biya to retire gracefully on October 20, warning that manipulating the vote could tarnish his legacy. “After 43 years, honor the people’s choice,” he said, highlighting the risk of conflict.
He also appealed to Nigeria, Chad, the African Union, European Union, United Nations, France, and the United States for support. “Your influence can ensure peace,” he said, seeking global pressure for a fair outcome.
This strategy echoes past African elections where international scrutiny helped maintain stability. With Cameroon already facing separatist violence in its Anglophone regions, Tchiroma’s plea emphasizes the need for calm.
Vote Tally and Tensions
The National Vote Counting Commission is carefully reviewing ballots, a step required before the Council’s final decision by October 26. Despite rules mandating transparency at polling stations, only the Council can name the winner.
With 8 million voters and multiple candidates, the process is intricate, and Biya’s party wields significant influence.
Scattered protests in cities like Douala reflect frustration over alleged voting irregularities. Security forces have stepped in, but unease persists. Other opposition figures have raised fraud concerns, though Tchiroma’s bold claims dominate the conversation.
A Critical Moment
Cameroon’s delicate state, worsened by the Anglophone crisis, makes this election a turning point. A Biya win could spark protests, while a Tchiroma victory might unsettle the ruling elite.
The Council, often viewed as aligned with the government, faces scrutiny to act fairly. African Union and European Union observers reported procedural flaws but no widespread violence.
Tchiroma’s shift from Biya supporter to fierce rival, driven by anti-corruption calls, has reshaped the race. As the nation awaits Thursday’s decision, the outcome could either deepen divisions or pave a new path, with Cameroon’s stability hanging in the balance.
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