Cameroon’s UNDP leader Bello Bouba Maïgari to challenge Paul Biya in Presidential race

Nearly eight million Cameroonians are scheduled to vote on Sun, Oct 12, 2025, in a significant election for the nation's political landscape. Beloboumama Egari, president of the National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP), is among the candidates, challenging the long-standing incumbent.

Egari has experience in both government and opposition roles. His party, the UNDP, decided to participate in the election, emphasizing their constitutional right to contest. The decision was made during a meeting of the party’s decision-making bodies on Sat, Jun 21, 2025.

At the age of 80, Egari considers his age an advantage, citing a long political career as a source of valuable experience.

Egari has served as a government minister and a leader in the National Assembly. He believes this dual experience has provided him with a unique perspective on national governance.

Egari has highlighted infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and education as his key priorities. He expressed concerns about the current educational facilities, noting the need for improvement.

In response to criticisms regarding his role in past governments, Egari asserted that his participation was based on agreed-upon government programs. He now believes that the UNDP can achieve better results.

The Constitutional Council will have a crucial role in confirming the election results. Egari stressed the importance of the Council's independence and the need for stronger national institutions.

Egari faces a competitive opposition field, including a candidate supported by the Union for Change. He has dismissed their selection, questioning its legitimacy.

As the election date approaches, Egari's combination of political experience and promises of reform will be tested in the upcoming vote.

Based on reporting by Africanews.