Cameroon Decides 2025
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President Biya Signs Decree Calling Presidential Election for 12 October 2025
President Paul Biya has officially signed the decree convening the electorate, setting the presidential poll for Sunday 12 October 2025, in compliance with the 90‑day legal requirement in Section 86 of Cameroon’s Electoral Code.
Key Timelines Underway
- Voter registration closed: Effective immediately as per Section 74 and 75 of the Electoral Code.
- Candidacy submissions: Must be filed with ELECAM by 21 July 2025. Section 86 and 123
- Publication of candidates: ELECAM must publish list of eligible candidates by 11 August 2025. Section 126.
- Campaign period: Begins 27 September, ends midnight 11 October 2025. Section 87
- Election Day: 12 October 2025.
Analysis: What This Means for Cameroonians
No new voter registration is permitted — only those with valid voter cards acquired during the earlier biometric drives remain eligible.
The election timeline is now firmly fixed, leaving just under three months to the vote. All stakeholders must act swiftly.
Potential candidates must move quickly to submit complete dossiers. Independent candidates face particular pressure to gather signatures and pay the deposit.
The campaign period is tightly regulated. Political parties and civil society should prepare for voter education, peace messaging, and oversight within the narrow timeframe.
ELECAM must ensure transparency and credibility throughout — from candidate vetting to polling logistics — while enabling appeals and procedural safeguards.
Summary Timeline
| Phase | Activity | Deadline / Date |
|---|---|---|
| Voter Registration | Officially closed upon decree issue | 11 July 2025 |
| Candidacy Submission | File presentation at ELECAM | By 21 July 2025 |
| Publication of Candidates | Eligible list by ELECAM | By 11 August 2025 |
| Legal Appeals Period | Appeals to Constitutional Council | 12–13 August 2025 |
| Campaign Window | National campaign period | 27 Sept – 11 Oct 2025 |
| Election Day | Voting across polling stations | 12 October 2025 |
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