Cameroon’s 2025 presidential race is officially underway, with five candidates having already submitted their documents to Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) between 12 and 16 July, following the convocation of the electoral college by President Paul Biya.
The long-serving head of state issued the decree on 11 July, setting 12 October 2025 as the date for the highly anticipated presidential poll. Within hours of the announcement, ELECAM offices, particularly in Yaoundé, witnessed a surge of activity as political actors rushed to formalise their intentions to contest.
Bertin Kisob, leader of the Cameroon Party for Social Justice, was the first candidate to submit his file on 12 July, kicking off what has become a steadily growing list of contenders.
As of 20:00 GMT on 16 July, the five officially declared candidates are:
- Bertin Kisob: President of the Cameroon Party for Social Justice
- Akere Muna: Renowned lawyer and transparency advocate, backed by a coalition led by the Univers Party
- Kamgan-Tan Eric: Independent candidate
- Ze Amvene Geneviève: Independent candidate and first woman to enter the race
- Gwet Jean : Independent candidate
The diversity of the early candidates reflects a broadening political spectrum, with independent aspirants and reform-minded voices stepping forward alongside party figures. Notably, Ze Amvene Geneviève’s candidacy has been hailed as a breakthrough for female representation in a field often monopolised by men.
The early enthusiasm among candidates signals an intensifying political climate, with more declarations expected in the days ahead. ELECAM officials anticipate a busy period as aspirants race to meet procedural requirements before the final deadline.
As the electoral clock ticks, the stage is being set for a contest that could redefine the future of Cameroon, a nation grappling with internal crises, demands for political renewal, and questions surrounding the continuity of Biya’s more than four-decade rule.
By Hilltopvoices Newsroom
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