YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon –
A record-breaking 81 candidates have submitted their names to run in Cameroon’s upcoming presidential elections, setting the stage for what could be the country’s most crowded contest in history. But despite the numbers, many believe the result is already written.
The vote is scheduled for October. By midnight Monday, the country’s elections body had received dozens of last-minute applications, most from male candidates and several from familiar names in Cameroonian politics.
Among the most notable is Bello Bouba Maïgari, who once backed President Paul Biya but is now challenging him at the ballot for a second time. Also returning to the race are long-time opposition figures Maurice Kamto and Cabral Libii, both of whom have changed party allegiances since the last election.
Yet amid the political noise, one name towers above the rest-Paul Biya.
The 92-year-old president, Africa’s oldest serving head of state, is again seeking another term in office. After 42 years in power, his decision to run has sparked criticism both at home and abroad.
“There’s no democracy in a country where elections are just a formality,” said a local journalist in Douala, who asked not to be named for safety reasons. “People are tired, but they also feel powerless.”
Only seven women are among the 81 hopefuls—a stark reminder of the gender imbalance in Cameroonian politics. Names like Eliane Véronique Eboutou and independent candidates Mbengono Zouame Epse Ndzie Ngono Guyleine and Geneviève Zeh Amvene stand out in the long male-dominated list.
Observers say the flood of applications could signal a deep desire for change among Cameroonians. But they also point to a divided opposition and a political system long seen as resistant to reform.
“The number of candidates shows fragmentation more than strength,” said Simon Mbakop, a political analyst based in Yaoundé. “It may actually help Biya.”
Critics argue that the country’s electoral system is neither free nor fair. Transparency International and other watchdogs have previously raised concerns over irregularities, voter intimidation, and media censorship during past polls.
Last week, Biya reshuffled top military positions—an act many saw as a strategic move to secure loyalty from the army ahead of the elections.
The final list of approved candidates will be announced by Cameroon’s electoral council in the coming weeks. By law, the list must be confirmed no later than 60 days before election day.
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