Cameroon’s political landscape was shaken on Tuesday, June 24, as longtime minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary tendered his resignation, just four months before the October 2025 presidential election.
The former Minister of Employment and Vocational Training submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute, marking a dramatic rupture with President Paul Biya’s administration.
Sources close to the government confirmed that Tchiroma, also president of the Cameroon National Salvation Front (CNSF), has already vacated his ministerial office and official residence in Yaoundé.
His departure signals a critical turning point in Cameroonian politics, especially for the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), which has relied heavily on his influence in the Far North region.
A seasoned political figure and former Minister of Communication, Tchiroma was long regarded as a vocal supporter of Biya’s leadership. His decision to step away has stunned many within the ruling party.
“Minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary reportedly sent his letter of resignation to the Prime Minister, Head of Government,” journalist Bruno Bidjang reported, citing credible sources within the presidency.
In a highly unusual move, the Prime Minister is said to have requested that Tchiroma address his resignation directly to President Biya, reflecting the strategic weight of the development.
The timing is particularly significant. Just five days ago, the country was abuzz with reports of tensions between Tchiroma and the central government.
The minister had issued uncharacteristically sharp criticism of the administration, laying blame for Cameroon’s worsening economic situation at the feet of President Biya.
The official announcement of his resignation is expected to be made from Garoua, Tchiroma’s political base in the Far North. Observers say the move is designed to galvanize regional support and signal a potential shift in political allegiances.
The CPDM now faces a potential crisis in the Far North, a region long considered a stronghold. Tchiroma’s departure is seen as a significant blow to the party’s election strategy, with fears of further defections already circulating.
Among those rumored to be on the brink of departure is Bello Bouba Maïgari, Minister of Tourism and Leisure, whose own party congress is scheduled for June 28.
“The next 28 days will be politically charged in Cameroon,” predicted Le TGV de l’info earlier this month — a forecast now validated by these fast-moving developments.
As speculation mounts over Tchiroma’s next move, attention turns to whether he might declare a bid for the presidency.
Though close allies, including journalist Guibai Gatama, have remained tight-lipped, Tchiroma’s established base in the Far North gives weight to the possibility.
Whether this marks the beginning of a larger political realignment remains to be seen.
But as Cameroon heads toward a decisive election, Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s resignation is a clear signal that the political tides may be turning.
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