With only five months remaining before Cameroon’s highly anticipated 2025 presidential election, the political landscape is becoming increasingly tense and complex. The opposition, fragmented and entangled in internal disputes, is working behind the scenes to prevent the incumbent, President Paul Biya, from securing yet another term. As Biya’s potential bid for re-election looms, questions about unity, strategy, and leadership within the opposition are more relevant than ever.
Firstly, will the opposition be able to overcome its internal conflicts and unite around a single candidate capable of challenging Biya’s entrenched grip on power? The opposition has historically been divided, each faction vying for prominence, which could weaken their collective ability to mount a serious challenge. Maurice Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), remains a prominent figure, but will he be able to forge a broad coalition that consolidates various opposition groups into a formidable bloc?
Secondly, what role will strategic alliances and negotiations play in determining the opposition’s chances? The opposition’s success hinges on their capacity to form strategic partnerships that can rally diverse factions and present a credible alternative. Will they realize that only through unity can they stand a chance against the well-entrenched ruling party and its likely candidate, Paul Biya?
Thirdly, how will the legal landscape influence the opposition’s game plan? Past elections in Cameroon have been marked by legal constraints and sometimes questionable electoral practices. Will the opposition succeed in navigating the legal hurdles, or will they be further stifled by the state’s influence over electoral processes? Their ability to mount a fair and transparent challenge is crucial for the integrity of the electoral process.
Fourthly, leadership disputes within the opposition threaten to undermine their unity. Fragmentation has often been their Achilles’ heel, with key figures competing for dominance. Can opposition leaders put aside personal ambitions and prioritize national interests to present a cohesive front? Without strong, unified leadership, their chances of success diminish dramatically.
Finally, what tactics will the ruling CPDM employ to maintain its hold on power? President Biya, who has ruled Cameroon for over 42 years, remains a formidable figure with a network deeply embedded in state institutions. If he runs again, the election will likely become a high-stakes contest not only of policies but also of influence, control, and survival. Will the opposition’s strategies be enough to confront the established system’s advantages and ensure a free, fair, and competitive election?
As Cameroon approaches this critical electoral crossroads, these questions underscore the intricate dance of alliances and rivalries shaping the nation’s political future. The opposition’s ability—or inability—to unify and stand strong will be decisive in determining whether Cameroon can break free from its long-standing political stagnation or whether Biya’s legacy will persist beyond his time in office. The coming months will reveal if they can translate opposition aspirations into a united front capable of unseating one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
