Cameroonians went to the polls on Sunday in a presidential election widely seen as a test of the country’s political future, as 92-year-old President Paul Biya seeks to extend his more than four-decade rule.
The National Election Commission (ELECAM) said more than 8 million registered voters were expected to cast their ballots at over 31,000 polling stations across the country and at Cameroonian embassies abroad. Voting began at 8:00 a.m. local time and is scheduled to close at 6:00 p.m.
Biya, one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, has ruled Cameroon since 1982 and is seeking his eighth consecutive term. He faces at least nine other candidates, including former communications minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who is running on a platform promising generational change and economic reform.
Notably absent from the ballot is opposition leader Maurice Kamto, Biya’s main challenger in the 2018 election. Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement, was disqualified earlier this year after ELECAM rejected his candidacy over alleged procedural irregularities — a move his supporters described as politically motivated.
Also Read: Cameroon Election: Pressure Builds on Biya to Step Aside
The election comes amid widespread discontent over economic hardship, high youth unemployment, and persistent insecurity in parts of the country. The English-speaking North-West and South-West regions remain affected by separatist violence, while the Far North faces intermittent attacks by Boko Haram insurgents.
International observers have raised concerns about restricted civic space, media censorship, and the lack of electoral reforms. However, the government insists that the process is transparent and secure.
Security has been tightened nationwide, with heavy deployment of military and police personnel around polling stations, particularly in restive areas. Authorities have urged citizens to turn out peacefully and assured that measures are in place to ensure credible results.
Voters interviewed in Yaoundé and Douala expressed mixed feelings about the poll. Some voiced support for stability under Biya’s leadership, while others called for political renewal after more than 40 years of his administration.
