Who could challenge a 92-Year-Old incumbent? Predicting the contenders in Cameroon’s 2025 race
By Bakah Derick Hilltopvoices News
As Cameroon readies itself for the October 2025 presidential election, the political spotlight increasingly falls on whether Paul Biya, 92 and in office since 1982 will indeed run for an unprecedented eighth term. If he does, who are the real contenders who could challenge his decades-long hold on power?
🧓 Paul Biya – The Incumbent or a Symbolic Candidate?
Biya is expected to once again nominate himself as the CPDM (RDPC) candidate. Despite widespread concerns about his age and health, his grip on power remains tight thanks to entrenched political networks and control over state institutions.
However, speculation around succession persists. Should Biya step down or pass away in office, Senate President Marcel Niat Njifenji would be constitutionally next in line, though he is unlikely to be a long-term replacement or candidate himself.
Maurice Kamto – The opposition’s standard-bearer
Maurice Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM/MRC), has officially declared his candidacy. After claiming victory in the disputed 2018 elections and facing house arrest, Kamto has maintained strong support both domestically and among the diaspora.
With new polling showing his popularity rising above 50% among likely opposition voters, Kamto is seen as the leading face of democratic resistance.
⚖️ Akere Muna – anti-corruption crusader
Akere Muna, a former Vice Chair of Transparency International and experienced statesman, has confirmed his candidacy under the Univers party. In 2018, he withdrew in favor of Kamto. This time, however, he seems determined to carry the torch himself, emphasising transparency, justice, and institutional reform.
Joshua Osih – The federalism visionary
Joshua Osih, first Anglophone MP elected in Douala and current chair of the SDF, has again been chosen to represent the party. With decentralisation and federalism at the core of his campaign, Osih appeals to those seeking a peaceful and equitable resolution to the ongoing Anglophone crisis.
Cabral Libii – The young contender
Cabral Libii, the youthful head of the PCRN, officially declared his candidacy in May 2025. He earned 6% in 2018 and has built a national presence through grassroots organizing and social media. Libii appeals to young voters and reform-minded Cameroonians eager for generational change.
Other contenders stirring the field
Smaller figures like Issa Tchiroma Bakary of NSF, Bello Bouba of the NUDP, Serge Espoir Matomba of PURS, etc have declared interest, but their national reach remains limited. Speculation about Franck Biya (the president’s son) continues, though no official steps have been taken by either.
🧭 What This Means for Cameroon in 2025
In Cameroon’s first-past-the-post electoral system, unity is key. According to many observers, without a coalition or united front, the divided opposition may again fall short, despite widespread dissatisfaction with the status quo.
International observers and democracy watchdogs are closely monitoring the election, seeing it as a critical test for the future of Cameroon’s institutions.
Outlook
October 2025, could mark a turning point in Cameroon’s political history. Will a fragmented opposition allow Biya to secure a historic eighth term, or will the rising momentum behind figures like Kamto,Osih, Muna, or Libii finally shift the political landscape?
Cameroon Decides 2025. The Presidential Pulse has begun.
Consult Um Nyobés prophecy on the third president of Cameroon. First two accomplished
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