In a powerful statement delivered on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, Bishop Lontsie Keune of the Diocese of Bafoussam sharply criticised the political climate in Cameroon, warning that electoral fraud and injustice can never be foundations for lasting peace.
“We proclaim that lasting peace is built on solid and fortified foundations of a true rule of law that are justice and truth,” Bishop Keune stated.
“Injustice can never bring peace; electoral fraud can never bring peace; lawlessness can never bring peace; fear can never bring peace; the absence of alternation prepares the ground for future conflicts and not for peace.”
Citing the Book of Ecclesiastes, he reflected on the need for democratic transition and the impermanence of political power.
“There is a season for everything, a time for every purpose under heaven,” he said, quoting Ecclesiastes 3:1.
“The place of power appears as an empty place, and those who exercise it can only remain there on condition of submitting to the rules of the democratic game, that is to say, admitting that they are only there temporarily,” he added, referencing political philosopher Claude Lefort.
Addressing the importance of political alternation, Bishop Keune described it as a vital mechanism in any democracy.
“Yes, it must be said, alternation in a democracy is a great good for a nation because it allows for the peaceful renewal of power, prevents the seizure of power by a single group, strengthens the legitimacy of institutions, stimulates the accountability of governments, and gives citizens the feeling of being truly sovereign.”
He also questioned the controversial debates around the “imperative mandate,” suggesting that they were used to exclude potential candidates from the presidential race.
Further criticism was levelled at the recent postponement of the municipal and legislative elections, which were originally scheduled for March 2025.
“Were these debates sparked and provoked on the ‘imperative mandate’ and the ‘representative mandate’ intended to disqualify certain candidates?” he asked. “The people are murmuring… we are wondering.”
Referring to the delay of local elections until after the presidential polls, Bishop Keune voiced deep concern. “Was this postponement motivated by political and strategic calculations? The people are murmuring… we are wondering.”
His remarks arrive at a critical juncture, as Cameroon edges closer to the next presidential election amidst growing political tension and public scepticism over electoral transparency.
About The Author
