Your go-to source for in-depth coverage of political developments, economic trends, social affairs, and vibrant cultural stories from across the continent.
In a major political shake-up just months ahead of Cameroon’s presidential election, Maurice Kamto has officially announced his resignation from the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC), the party he led for years, to join the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM).
“I resigned from the MRC on June 25, 2025, to join MANIDEM on June 27, 2025,” Kamto told reporters at a press conference held Saturday at the MRC headquarters in Odza, Yaoundé.
His statement was met with applause from supporters gathered at the venue.
Kamto, now the official presidential candidate for MANIDEM, was endorsed by the party on July 16 and submitted his candidacy to Elections Cameroon (Elecam) on July 17 for the upcoming 12 October 2025 vote.
“I sent my resignation letter to the MRC on June 25, 2025. I then joined MANIDEM on June 27, 2025, after months of discussion with the party,” Kamto stated, underscoring a strategic political move that had been in the works for some time.
The leader of MANIDEM, Anicet Nkane, is now backing Kamto’s campaign, marking a new alliance that may reshape opposition dynamics in the country.
Kamto emphasized that his candidacy meets all legal and constitutional requirements, dismissing concerns raised by some legal experts.
“The Constitutional Council will validate my application, and that will be the first step toward real change,” Kamto asserted.
This transition marks a new chapter in Kamto’s political journey, as he positions himself once again to challenge long-standing power structures in Cameroon. With election season heating up, his departure from MRC and quick pivot to MANIDEM adds a fresh layer of unpredictability to the upcoming race.
