Maurice Kamto, a leading opposition figure in Cameroon and a prominent challenger to President Paul Biya, has been barred from the presidential race set for October 12. Despite accusations of fraud during the previous election, Biya, at 92 years old, seeks an eighth term against two former allies. Kamto's disqualification adds to ongoing debates about the legitimacy and competitiveness of the political landscape in Cameroon.
Maurice Kamto Disqualified in Cameroon’s Upcoming Presidential Race
Maurice Kamto Disqualified in Cameroon’s Upcoming Presidential Race
The exclusion of opposition leader Maurice Kamto from the Cameroonian presidential race raises questions about electoral fairness and democracy in the country.
Cameroonian opposition leader Maurice Kamto has been disqualified from participating in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for October 12, raising significant concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in the country. Kamto was a notable contender in the previous election, where he finished second but faced accusations of irregularities concerning the election's conduct.
The Cameroonian electoral authority, Elecam, approved only 13 out of a total of 83 submitted candidacies, with Kamto's name notably absent from the list. No justification has been provided for his exclusion, which many critics argue reflects ongoing efforts to suppress political dissent in the nation.
President Paul Biya, who is 92 years old and has held power for almost 43 years, is seeking his eighth term in office. He has faced mounting pressure to step aside, yet Biya claims he has more to contribute to the nation’s governance. He will face challenges from two former political allies, Issa Tchiroma Bakary and Bello Bouba Maigari, both hailing from the north, which is known for its substantial voter base.
Kamto previously represented the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), but due to the party's absence of elected officials, it was barred from endorsing any candidates this election. The opposition leader has since allied with the Manidem party, which maintains a presence in local governance.
In addition to Kamto, other candidates who have been authorized to run include Akere Muna, a well-known anti-corruption lawyer, Social Democratic Front leader Joshua Osih, and lawmaker Cabral Libii. The only female candidate on the ballot is firebrand Mayor of Foumban, Patricia Tomaino Ndam Njoya.
Those candidates who were disqualified from participating now have a two-day window during which they can contest the decision with the constitutional council. With mounting concerns regarding election integrity and democratic practices, notable observers are closely tracking the unfolding political climate in Cameroon.
