Cameroonians and well-wishers across the world have saluted the convening of voters for the presidential election on Sunday October 12, 2025 by incumbent President Paul Biya in keeping with the law. Among them is the United States embassy in Yaounde.
In a statement on Saturday, July 12, the diplomatic institution has urged all stakeholders to ensure an inclusive and fair electoral process.
“As a longstanding partner and friend of Cameroon, the United States underscores the importance of free, fair, peaceful, and inclusive elections as a cornerstone of democratic governance and stability in Cameroon and Central Africa,” a statement from the embassy reads in part.
While commending the work of journalists, civil society organisations, political parties, religious institutions and every other stakeholder, the statement stresses the need to protect the rights of all citizens “to participate freely and to vote their consciences without fear of repercussions”.
Respecting the constitution, electoral code and other relevant statement instruments is cited by the US embassy as being crucial to guaranteeing trust in state institutions before, during and after the polls.
To achieve this, the embassy stated that journalists, political parties, civil society organizations, and religious institutions must be allowed to operate without harassment or undue restrictions.
“We stand with the Cameroonian people as they take this important step along their country’s democratic journey,” the diplomatic institution pledged.
In power since 1982, incumbent President Paul Biya will be seeking reelection for an eighth term during the forthcoming vote following the declaration of his candidacy on Sunday, July 13.
Biya is likely going to face a stiff opposition including from his former allies Iike the former Minister of Employment and Vocational Training Issa Tchiroma Bakary and the former Minister of Tourism and Leisure Bello Bouba Maigari. Both politicians have recently resigned from government to prepare for the elections.
The Social Democratic Front (SDF), previously the leading opposition party in Cameroon, are also looking forward to shake the political tree through their official flag bearer Hon Joshua Osih.
