Cameroon’s legal framework for presidential candidates is a blend of constitutional clarity and electoral safeguards. Here’s what every aspiring candidate must know:
1. Constitutional Requirements
According to Article 6 of the 2008 Constitution, candidates must:
- Be a natural-born Cameroonian
- Be at least 35 years old on election day
- Enjoy full civic and political rights
2. Electoral Code Provisions
The 2012 Electoral Code expands eligibility to include:
- At least 12 months of uninterrupted residency before election day
- Valid voter registration
Persons holding dual nationality or under foreign allegiance are disqualified. A Constitutional Council decision can enforce this within three days of challenge.
3. Supporting Documentation
To formally submit a candidacy, aspirants must provide:
- Birth certificate (≤ 3 months old)
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of Cameroonian nationality
- Tax clearance certificate
- Signed declaration of constitutional allegiance
- Deposit of 30 million CFA francs
4. Party or Independent?
Candidates may run as party nominees or independents. Independents must gather 300 validated signatures (30 per region) from elected officials or traditional leaders. Parties without elected officials must meet the same standard.
5. Summary Table
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Natural-born Cameroonian only |
| Age | 35 years or older |
| Residency | 12 continuous months before election |
| Civic Rights | Must not be under suspension |
| Deposit | 30 million CFA francs |
| Support Signatures | 300 (at least 30 per region) if independent or unsupported party |
| Voter Registration | Must be on electoral roll |
6. The 2025 Outlook
All eyes are on veteran and opposition figures. Yet, the legal filter remains high especially for independent aspirants and diaspora hopefuls. The 12-month residency rule and 30 million CFA deposit remain key hurdles.
As Cameroon prepares for the 2025 presidential race, understanding the laws that govern candidacy is essential to building democratic legitimacy.