Cameroon is heading toward an unprecedented presidential election this October, with 81 candidates submitting their applications — marking the highest number in the country’s political history.
Among them are familiar opposition figures like Maurice Kamto, Cabral Libii, and Bello Bouba Maïgari, all of whom have distanced themselves from President Paul Biya and their former political affiliations. Notably, only seven women are among the hopefuls, including Eliane Véronique Eboutou and two independents, reflecting the ongoing gender imbalance in Cameroonian politics. Despite the crowded field, the contest appears symbolic. 92-year-old incumbent Paul Biya, Africa’s oldest head of state, has confirmed his candidacy for an eighth term. Having ruled since 1982, Biya’s grip on power is viewed by many analysts as virtually unbreakable, particularly amid growing skepticism about electoral transparency.
His recent reshuffle of military leadership is seen as an effort to cement loyalty ahead of the vote. Meanwhile, public disillusionment deepens. Youth, who make up the majority of the population, increasingly voice frustration with economic hardship and nepotism, often choosing apathy over ballots. Though some interpret the flood of candidacies as a signal of democratic yearning, others see a fragmented opposition unable to mount a unified challenge. A recent article in The Guardian entitled ‘The World’s Oldest President Is Running Again’ has asked: “Can Anyone Stop Him From Winning?” With the final candidate list still pending, many wonder: is Cameroon’s crowded race a step toward change — or a reaffirmation of the status quo?