Cameroon’s long-serving President Paul Biya has offered opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary the position of prime minister in an apparent bid to calm political tensions following the country’s Oct. 12 presidential election, according to a report by Jeune Afrique.
The French-language magazine reported that Biya, 92, made the proposal as part of efforts to secure stability amid uncertainty over the still-unannounced election results. The constitutional court is expected to release the official tally by Oct. 26.
Surprising Turn of Events
Tchiroma, a former government minister who broke with Biya’s ruling party to run against him, was reportedly approached discreetly by members of the president’s inner circle. The offer would see him lead a so-called “unity government” in exchange for recognizing Biya’s continued presidency, Jeune Afrique said.
Despite the offer, several outlets, including SeneNews and 237online, reported that Tchiroma rejected the proposal, saying it fell short of his claim to have won the election outright. He has continued to insist that the vote was marred by irregularities and that his own tally shows him ahead.
What Political Stakes?
If confirmed, the outreach marks a rare move by Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982 and has often relied on patronage and tight political control to manage dissent. The reported offer suggests concern within his camp about possible unrest or a contested result.
Analysts say Biya’s move could be an attempt to prevent post-election protests and maintain the loyalty of elite factions that have shown signs of unease over his advanced age and lengthy rule.
Tchiroma’s refusal, meanwhile, underscores growing confidence among opposition figures and signals a possible shift in the country’s political dynamics.
What Next?
Cameroon’s constitutional council must validate the final election results within two weeks of the vote. Depending on the outcome, the reported offer could be viewed either as a conciliatory gesture or as an effort to preempt a challenge to Biya’s legitimacy.
For now, neither the presidency nor Tchiroma’s campaign has publicly commented on the report.
Source: Jeune Afrique (October 2025).