Facts about Cameroon’s presidential elections checked

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Fact Check: Cameroon Presidential Election

Claim 1: The President of Cameroon is elected for a term of 7 years.

Truth: ✅ True. As per Section 6(2) of the Electoral Code.

Claim 2: The President can only serve two terms.

Truth: ❌ False. Term limits were removed in 2008.

Claim 3: A candidate must be at least 35 years old.

Truth: ✅ True. Section 117(1a) confirms this.

Claim 4: Only political party candidates can contest.

Truth: ❌ False. Independent candidates are allowed but face strict conditions.

Claim 5: Candidates must pay a deposit to run.

Truth: ✅ True. A 30,000,000 FCFA non-refundable fee is required.

Claim 6: Absolute majority is needed to win.

Truth: ❌ False. A simple plurality is enough in a single-round election.

Claim 7: Voting is compulsory.

Truth: ❌ False. Voting is voluntary in Cameroon.

Claim 8: Cameroonians abroad can vote.

Truth: ✅ True, but only in presidential elections and referenda via embassies.

Claim 9: Election results can be contested.

Truth: ✅ True. Appeals go to the Constitutional Council.

Claim 10: The Ministry of Territorial Administration runs elections.

Truth: ❌ False. ELECAM is in charge, though MINAT supports logistics.

Claim 11: The President appoints ELECAM members.

Truth: ✅ True. Members are appointed by presidential decree.

Claim 12: Elections are held every 7 years.

Truth: ✅ True. Unless postponed, they are every seven years.

Claim 13: All candidates have equal access to state media.

Truth: ✅ True in law, but often violated in practice.

Claim 14: Cameroon allows electronic voting.

Truth: ❌ False. The process is strictly manual.

Claim 15: Only those born in Cameroon can run for president.

Truth: ❌ False. Must be a Cameroonian by birth, regardless of birthplace.