Cameroon faces a pivotal moment ahead of its presidential election on October 12, 2025, as political observers and citizens debate whether opposition parties can coalesce to challenge the long-standing ruling party.
Following the official publication of the 13 candidates selected by the Cameroon Electoral Council on July 26, 2025, and the pre-electoral dispute on August 4, the population now has a clearer view of those vying to lead the country.
The Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), in power for 43 years, commands a deep-rooted presence across the nation’s regions, departments, districts, and villages. Opposition activists argue that defeating this entrenched party will be difficult unless the leaders of the 12 other parties unite behind a single candidate.
Alain H., a motorcycle driver and political observer, stressed the need for coordination among opposition forces.
“When I know that the RDPC has behind it Elecam, the Constitutional Council, all the members of the government, the PCA, the directors of public and para-public companies, including the army, I express the wish that for the electoral consultation of October 12, all the leaders of the opposition parties join forces, in order to overthrow the party in power,” he said. He added that a unified candidate could hold new elections later to allow other contenders a chance.
Patriarch Felix M. echoed the call for unity, urging opposition leaders to take inspiration from Senegal’s political example. “Isn’t it often said that ‘unity is strength?’ So, it is high time that this adage is put into practice. This will make everyone happy, without exception,” he said.
Electrician Gaston T. outlined the strategic advantages of a single opposition candidate: “It is the wish of many Cameroonians; it prevents us from scattering our energies; it allows us to expose the various fraud mechanisms often used by the ruling party; it allows us to avoid post-election demonstrations; it is also, in a way, a sanction vote through the ballot box.”
As the election approaches, the focus now shifts to whether Cameroon’s fragmented opposition can overcome historical divisions and present a unified front against the CPDM, potentially reshaping the nation’s political landscape.
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