Cameroon's Enduring Power Tussle: Paul Biya Aims for Eighth Term Amidst Rising Opposition

Cameroon's President Paul Biya seeks an eighth term in office, facing challenges from former allies and critics of his prolonged rule. Despite disqualifying key opponent Maurice Kamto, a spirited challenge emerges from Issa Tchiroma Bakary. Contestation grows over Biya's leadership as the election features 12 candidates without run-offs.

Cameroonian President Paul Biya, who has led the country since 1982, is running for an eighth term in a bid to extend his rule into his late 90s. His prolonged leadership, marked by the elimination of term limits and consistent election wins, is raising frustration among citizens.

Despite Biya's government refuting allegations of electoral fraud, opposition voices grow louder. Maurice Kamto, Biya's main rival in 2018, is excluded from this election, weakening opposition unity. Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former minister and government spokesman, emerges as the most formidable challenger, criticizing Biya's economic management.

The election features 12 candidates, with no run-offs, giving the candidate with the most votes an outright win. As Biya appears sporadically in public, speculation about his health continues. With the opposition struggling to consolidate, Biya's victory seems likely as Cameroonians grapple with governance issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)