In a dramatic twist to Cameroon’s presidential race, Univers Party candidate Akere Muna has unofficially withdrawn his candidacy less than 24 hours after launching his campaign in Tiko. The lawyer and former Bar Council president announced in Douala on Saturday that he was backing Bello Bouba Maigari, leader of the National Union for Democracy and Progress (NUDP).
The announcement was made live during Bello Bouba’s campaign rally in Douala and confirmed by Muna himself on his official Facebook page: “Breaking News: Bâtonnier Akere Muna has officially joined forces with Bello Bouba Maigari. The announcement was made live at Bello Bouba Maigari’s campaign meeting in Douala. A significant new alliance has emerged.”
The move marks a rapid turnaround for Muna, who only a day earlier had addressed supporters in Tiko, promising a transitional government, the release of political prisoners and a sweeping anti-corruption drive. He had framed himself as a voice for radical change, calling on the opposition to unite in order to defeat the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM).
By stepping aside in favour of Bello Bouba, a seasoned politician and multiple-time presidential contender, Muna appears to be turning his calls for coalition-building into concrete action. The partnership could inject new energy into Bello Bouba’s campaign while raising the prospect of further alliances among opposition parties ahead of the 12 October poll.
The sudden withdrawal has surprised many observers, highlighting once again the volatility of Cameroon’s political landscape as campaigning gathers pace.
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By Hilltopvoices Newsroom
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