CAMEROON. The Struggles of Cameroonian Voters Before the 2025 Elections

As the 2025 presidential election in Cameroon approaches, many citizens are grappling with confusion, disinterest, and significant barriers to participation. These challenges are compounded by political, social, and security issues that threaten the integrity of the electoral process.

The ruling party, led by President Paul Biya, has been accused of creating an environment that discourages voter participation. Many Cameroonians believe the elections are predetermined, with allegations of potential rigging further fueling distrust in the process. This perception has led to widespread voter apathy, with only about 20% of eligible voters registering so far.

The electoral commission in Cameroon, appointed directly by the president, has been widely criticized for its lack of independence and transparency. For years, it has been accused of corruption and favoring the ruling party, further eroding public trust in the fairness of elections. This distrust has deepened disinterest among voters, particularly the youth, who feel their voices are unlikely to make a difference in such a compromised system.

Another major concern is the age of the candidates being presented to the population. With most candidates being elderly individuals, including President Paul Biya (currently 92 years old), many young voters feel disconnected from the leadership. They see a political system dominated by older figures with little understanding of the challenges and aspirations of younger generations. This lack of generational renewal alienates the youth, who make up a significant portion of the population.

Decades of governance by the same party, coupled with a lack of transparency in past elections, have left many citizens skeptical about the fairness of the electoral process. This distrust is particularly strong among the youth, who feel disconnected from a political system that seems unresponsive to their needs and aspirations.One of the most pressing issues is the ongoing Anglophone crisis in the Northwest and Southwest regions. Armed separatist groups and militias are actively working to disrupt the elections in these areas, making it unlikely that effective voting will take place. This conflict not only threatens the safety of voters but also deepens the sense of exclusion and marginalization felt by residents of these regions.

For many Cameroonians, the focus is on surviving day-to-day economic challenges rather than participating in elections. High unemployment, inflation, and limited opportunities have left citizens feeling that political participation will not address their immediate concerns. This economic pressure has contributed to a sense of disinterest in the electoral process.The 2025 elections are expected to be marred by rising disinformation, with the government accused of weaponizing laws against "false news" to suppress dissent. This environment of misinformation and repression further alienates voters, leaving many unsure about what to believe or how to engage with the process.The road to the 2025 presidential election in Cameroon is fraught with challenges. From political disillusionment and economic struggles to the ongoing conflict in the Anglophone regions, many factors are contributing to voter confusion and apathy. Addressing these issues will require significant efforts to rebuild trust in the electoral system, ensure security in conflict zones, and provide clear, accurate information to the public. Without these measures, the election risks deepening divisions and further eroding confidence in the democratic process.