Cameroon Presidential Election: Paul Biya, Age 92 and Ruling for 43 Years, Leading in Vote Count

The recent presidential election in Cameroon has drawn significant attention as President Paul Biya, aged 92, seeks to extend his 43-year rule. The election took place on Sunday, with Biya regarded as the frontrunner amid a competitive field of 11 candidates, including former minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who has gained unexpected support.

Election Details and Process

Voting concluded at 6:00 PM local time, followed by immediate counting of ballots. Jean-Alain Andzongo Bikele, an electoral commission representative, reported that the voting process was carried out in a calm and serene manner. Official results are expected to be announced by the Constitutional Council by October 26.

• Election Date: Sunday
• Deadline for Results: October 26
• Number of Candidates: 11
• Estimated Voters: 8 million

Historically, Biya has secured over 70% of votes in the past two decades. As many as 40% of Cameroonians live below the poverty line, with aggravated socio-economic challenges leading up to this election.

Public Reaction and Campaign Atmosphere

Following the closure of polling stations, reports emerged of supporters in Yaoundé celebrating a potential lead for Tchiroma. Many chanted slogans like “Goodbye Paul Biya, Tchiroma is coming.” This unrest indicates a shift in public sentiment.

Analyst Stéphane Akoa commented on the unusually vibrant campaign period, suggesting that this election could yield surprising results. Despite rising discontent, many young voters expressed enthusiasm about participating in the election.

Political Context and Challenges

The atmosphere leading up to the election was marked by Biya’s low visibility during campaigning. His last public appearance before the election was in May. In contrast, his rivals, including Tchiroma, actively engaged with communities, rallying thousands of supporters.

The government faced skepticism regarding the election’s fairness. Maurice Kamto, a notable opposition figure from the 2018 elections, was barred from running, raising concerns from various NGOs about electoral credibility.

Implications for Governance and Future Outlook

Public discontent persists as Cameroonians face increased living costs, lack of potable water, and inadequate healthcare. There are ongoing worries that protests may not materialize significantly, despite widespread frustrations.

The government allowed over 55,000 local and international observers to monitor the election, including representatives from the African Union. Various independent platforms have committed to tracking results to ensure transparency, facing criticism from officials who accuse them of attempting to manipulate public opinion.

This election unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in the country’s English-speaking regions, which have historically seen high abstention rates during elections. The outcome will significantly impact Cameroon’s political landscape and public sentiment moving forward.