Biya Floods Social Media with Fresh Promises as Election Pressure Mounts

By A.J.

President Paul Biya has launched a flurry of social media posts promising a new era of “greatness and hope” as Cameroon’s presidential campaign enters its decisive stretch.

His recent tweets and graphics, focused on empowering youth and women, improving social services, and boosting made-in-Cameroon products, have filled timelines and billboards nationwide.

But for many Cameroonians, these messages sound all too familiar. After 43 years in power, Biya’s new pledges have drawn more skepticism than excitement.

“He’s been promising jobs and hospitals for decades,” one Yaoundé resident said.

“Why should we believe it now, just days before the vote?”

The timing of this renewed campaign blitz is notable. It comes just as FSNC presidential candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary drew record-breaking crowds across Yaoundé, Bamenda, Buea, Limbe, and Douala—rallies that electrified his base and shifted national attention.

Videos from the events showed tens of thousands chanting for change, signaling growing fatigue with the ruling party’s long tenure.

Many speculate Biya’s social media push appears to be a reaction to this surge. His campaign slogan, “Greatness and Hope,” emphasizes continuity and stability, but critics see it as a desperate attempt to reconnect with an electorate that feels left behind.

With just days to the October 12 presidential election, the ruling camp is clearly feeling the pressure.

Whether Biya’s late appeal can reverse growing public doubt remains to be seen—but for now, the narrative seems to have shifted.

The veteran leader, once known for his calm distance from the campaign trail, now appears to be fighting to prove that his voice still matters in a changing political landscape.