Cameroon goes to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president, amid widespread expectations that incumbent President Paul Biya will secure another term, extending his rule that has spanned more than four decades.
At 92 years old, Biya is the world’s oldest head of state. He has governed the Central African nation since 1982, maintaining power through successive elections in which he has consistently defeated his challengers.
According to the country’s Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), more than eight million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots across the country in a single-day vote, with official results expected within about 15 days.
The election is being held amid mounting calls from opposition parties and civil society groups to end Biya’s decades-long tenure and to bring about political and economic reform in a country facing economic stagnation, as well as social and security tensions in some regions.
In 2008, Biya oversaw the removal of presidential term limits, allowing him to run for re-election indefinitely — a move that consolidated his grip on power despite growing domestic and international appeals for a peaceful transfer of authority.
ELECAM confirmed that twelve candidates are contesting the presidency. Among Biya’s main rivals is Issa Tchiroma Bakary, 76, a former government spokesperson who has attracted large crowds during his campaign, calling for change and receiving backing from several opposition parties and civic groups seeking to present a united front.
The government has pledged that the election will be conducted in a secure and transparent manner, amid heightened international scrutiny and calls for fairness in the process.
Opposition figures, however, remain hopeful of a breakthrough that could reshape the country’s political landscape and signal the beginning of a new chapter for Cameroon.
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