President Biya Announces Candidacy for Eighth Term in Cameroon

• President Biya announces his eighth term candidacy ahead of elections.
• Biya has been in power for over 43 years, a significant tenure.
• Recent defections from his support base may impact his campaign.
• The opposition remains divided, complicating their electoral strategy.
• The upcoming election is set for October 12, 2025.

Biya’s Announcement Sparks Reactions Across the Country

President Paul Biya, the long-standing leader of Cameroon at 92 years old, has made headlines again by announcing his intention to seek an eighth term in the upcoming election scheduled for October 2025. His announcement, made via social media, marks a significant moment as he looks to extend a continuous reign that has lasted for more than four decades. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, revealed his candidacy in both French and English on the platform X, addressing the nation directly, which is a notable move as the country approaches this pivotal electoral period.

Political Landscape and Support Base Concerns

In his post, Biya emphasized his commitment to serving the people of Cameroon despite the myriad challenges facing the nation. “I am a candidate for the 12 October 2025 presidential election. Rest assured that my determination to serve you is commensurate with the serious challenges facing us,” he declared. Such messages are meant to inspire trust and stability as the nation’s leader continues to navigate a politically tumultuous landscape, even as signs of discontent grow among some longtime supporters. The President’s party, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), has backed him as their de facto candidate, reinforcing his position as a key player in the upcoming elections.

Opposition Challenges amidst Biya’s Candidacy

Interestingly, there has been a noticeable shift in the political climate as a couple of prominent figures have recently distanced themselves from Biya, sparking speculation about potential cracks within his support base. Despite these defections, the opposition remains fragmented and is reportedly struggling to consolidate behind a singular candidate, leaving room for Biya to reaffirm his standing. As Cameroonians prepare for the elections, the dynamics within both Biya’s camp and the opposition parties will be crucial in determining the outcome come October.

President Paul Biya’s decision to run for an eighth term has ignited discussions around the political stability of Cameroon as he faces off against an opposition that is yet to unify. While Biya’s long history in power continues, defections from his supporters signal a shift that could have implications for the elections. Looking ahead, how this plays out in October’s elections will largely depend on the response of both Biya’s CPDM and the divided opposition.