Maurice Kamto, a key opposition figure in Cameroon, has been left off the official list of candidates for the upcoming presidential election on 12 October. Out of 83 submitted names, the country’s electoral commission, Elecam, accepted only 13.
Kamto, who previously placed second in the 2018 elections amid contested results, has not yet responded publicly to his disqualification. His exclusion stems from a dispute within the Manidem party, which he joined after his former party, the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), was barred from nominating candidates this year due to lack of representation in parliament or local councils.
Although Kamto was formally adopted by Manidem’s leadership, a rival faction also submitted a candidate under the same party name. Manidem president Anicet Ekane criticized the electoral body’s decision, calling it “arbitrary and provocative” and vowed to challenge it before the Constitutional Council. Disqualified candidates have two days to appeal.
Meanwhile, 92 year old President Paul Biya already in power for nearly 43 years is seeking an eighth term, despite widespread calls for retirement. Biya faces competition from former ministers Issa Tchiroma Bakary and Bello Bouba Maigari, both hailing from Cameroon’s vote rich northern region.
Also joining the race are prominent figures like anti corruption advocate Akere Muna, Social Democratic Front leader Joshua Osih, and parliamentarian Cabral Libii. Mayor Patricia Tomaino Ndam Njoya of Foumban stands out as the sole female contender.
Despite attempts to modernize his image, including efforts on social media, Biya’s campaign continues to struggle with younger voters.
