Cameroon’s Political Future Under President Paul Biya: What Lies Ahead?

President Paul Biya is likely to run for an eighth term in Cameroon, having led for over 42 years. His age raises concerns about governance amid a backdrop of civil unrest and economic challenges. Critics highlight leadership issues and political repression, while calls for reform come from various quarters, including the Catholic Church. The fragmented opposition fails to challenge Biya efficiently, raising doubts about political alternatives.

Cameroon’s central leader, President Paul Biya, is expected to seek an eighth consecutive term in the upcoming elections, reaffirming his position as Africa’s longest-serving ruler at 91 years old. Political commentator Dr. John Akpo remarks on Biya’s candidacy as inevitable, as party supporters have rallied behind him, despite concerns surrounding his health. Another party member, Elvis Ngolle Ngolle, indicates that preparations for the elections are ongoing, rejecting notions of a post-Biya discussion as premature.

Having ruled for over 42 years, if re-elected, Biya will be 99 by the next elections in 2032. Despite some opposition support, Akpo criticizes it as insincere, suggesting these groups are merely extensions of Biya’s ruling party, further complicating the political landscape.

Biya has been recognized for fostering multi-party democracy and strengthening international relations. However, an ongoing civil war driven by Anglophone separatists has strained economic conditions. Lawyer Tamfu Richard argues that Biya’s advanced age may hinder his ability to adequately address these growing crises, noting his limited direct engagement with affected regions.

His administration has faced criticisms for harsh crackdowns on opposition, including the imprisonment of peaceful protestors such as Maurice Kamto, who was detained for nearly nine months in 2019.

The ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) relies on a coalition with other parties like the Democratic Movement for the Defense of the Republic (MDR) and the Union of the Populations of Cameroon (UPC). Recent electoral history indicates dwindling support for these allies, with MDR securing just one seat in 2020, although both remain crucial for the government.

Concern arose as Catholic bishops in Buea reportedly commented on the need for improved governance, suggesting power transfer. Bishop Solomon Lyonga clarified that their focus is on improving citizens’ welfare rather than demanding Biya’s resignation. This highlights the Catholic Church’s potential influence in shaping national sentiments.

Despite some economic recovery, Cameroon’s GDP growth has slowed, and inflation remains high. In 2023, GDP grew only 3.3%, down from 3.6% in 2022, with poverty rates stagnating at around 23%. Corruption persists as a critical issue, affecting state projects and impeding citizens’ quality of life, according to Akpo.

Cameroon has been under the rule of President Paul Biya for over four decades, leading to questions about his political longevity and ability to govern effectively at 91 years old. As the country approaches elections, the political environment is complex, marked by a civil war in the Anglophone regions and significant opposition discord. Biya’s leadership has been both characterized by stability and criticism regarding human rights and governance. The economic landscape presents challenges such as high poverty rates and corruption, complicating prospects for development and reform.

As Cameroon prepares for another election cycle under President Biya, the political dynamics reveal a fragmented opposition and a ruling party reliant on political alliances. With widespread support from his party and some opposition factions, Biya’s continued rule raises critical questions about governance capacity and the future of Cameroon’s democracy amid various challenges. The influence of social institutions like the Catholic Church could play a pivotal role in shaping public discourse as the nation navigates these uncertain times.

Original Source: www.dw.com