News|ElectionsCameroon votes in presidential election as Paul Biya, 92, seeks eighth termBiya, the world’s oldest serving head of state, is likely to extend his 43 years in power in the Central African nation.
On Sun, Oct 12, 2025, Cameroon opened polls for a presidential election. The election process is expected to result in the re-election of the 92-year-old incumbent, Paul Biya, who is seeking an eighth term in office. The Central African nation has a…
On Sun, Oct 12, 2025, Cameroon opened polls for a presidential election. The election process is expected to result in the re-election of the 92-year-old incumbent, Paul Biya, who is seeking an eighth term in office. The Central African nation has a population of approximately 30 million people.
Paul Biya, who has been in power for 43 years, faces opposition from 11 candidates. Notable among them is Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government spokesman aged 79, who resigned in June to join the opposition. Bakary is considered a primary contender after another prominent opponent, Maurice Kamto, was excluded from the race. Despite a lively campaign environment, analysts anticipate Biya's victory due to his influence over state apparatus and fragmented opposition.
The incumbent leader has historically maintained his position by effectively dividing opposition forces. While his awareness of current dynamics is debated, the electoral system he established is anticipated to secure his eighth term. Biya's campaign has been low-profile, with minimal public appearances, including a solitary rally in Maroua, attended by a few hundred people, contrasting with Bakary's larger gatherings.
On Sun, Oct 12, 2025, Cameroon opened polls for a presidential election.
Cameroon, recognized for its diverse economy and significant oil and cocoa production, faces economic challenges. Approximately 40% of its population lives below the poverty line, as reported by the World Bank. Citizens express dissatisfaction with the high cost of living, unemployment, and inadequate access to essential services such as clean water, healthcare, and education.
Various voters express the need for change, citing long-standing grievances about governance and economic conditions. The election occurs amidst ongoing conflict between separatist groups and the government in the northwest and southwest regions, a situation persisting since 2016. Over eight million individuals have registered to vote. The Constitutional Council is expected to release the final results by Thu, Oct 26, 2025.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
