Cameroon Decides 2025
As the deadline for submission of candidacy files closes at midnight, nearly 80 Cameroonians are reportedly eyeing the nation’s top office. Yet, the country’s Constitution and Electoral Code remain steep hurdles that few will overcome.
What the Law Says
The 2008 Constitution requires that a presidential candidate must be:
- Cameroonian by birth
- At least 35 years of age
- In full enjoyment of civil and political rights
The Electoral Code further demands:
- At least 12 months of continuous residence in Cameroon before the election
- Proof of literacy in English or French
- No serious criminal convictions
- A full administrative file with legalised documents
- A non-refundable 30 million CFA francs deposit
- 300 endorsements (30 per region) for independents
Lessons from 2018
In 2018, only nine candidates were officially retained despite 28 showing interest:
- Paul Biya (CPDM)
- Maurice Kamto (MRC)
- Cabral Libii (Univers)
- Akere Muna (Now!)
- Joshua Osih (SDF)
- Adamou Ndam Njoya (UDC)
- Serge Espoir Matomba (PURS)
- Garga Haman Adji (ADD)
- Ndifor Afanwi Franklin (MCNC)
Most aspirants were disqualified due to errors in documentation, lack of endorsements, or financial incapacity.
What Could Disqualify Aspirants in 2025
The same filters will likely apply this year:
| Requirement | Possible Pitfall |
|---|---|
| Cameroonian by birth | Dual nationality or foreign naturalisation |
| Minimum age: 35 | Too young at date of election |
| Residency | Insufficient local proof |
| Endorsements | Fewer than 300, or less than 30 per region |
| Administrative file | Missing legalised certificates |
| Financial deposit | Non-payment of 30 million CFA |
| Legal record | Unresolved convictions or bankruptcy |
The Road Ahead
After tonight’s deadline, ELECAM will begin scrutinising all files. Rejected applicants may appeal to the Constitutional Council, which is expected to publish the final candidate list by mid-August.
In a democracy where ambition meets bureaucracy, it is not the loudest voices but the most prepared files that make it onto the ballot.