Cameroon Government approves 40 parties, says to promote democracy

President Paul Biya‘s government has approved 40 new political parties in Cameroon, arguing that the measure aims to promote democracy.

The government asserts that this endeavor is a step towards fostering a more robust democratic environment in the country.

In a release signed November 9, the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, said the new political parties “will contribute to open and constructive debates”.

He emphasized that these new parties aim “to enrich the political landscape and promote freedom of expression” in Cameroon.

This move comes at a critical juncture, merely two years prior to the pivotal Presidential elections slated for 2025.

However, the emergence of these parties contributes to an already expansive landscape, with the total number of parties in the country now surpassing 370.

While many of these emerging political figures remain relatively unknown on the national stage, voices within Cameroon have often raised concerns about the multiplication of parties possibly playing into the hands of President Biya.

Having maintained a lengthy 41-year tenure in Cameroon’s leadership, Biya, who is set to turn 92 at the time of the 2025 elections, continues to wield significant influence.

Notwithstanding his extensive rule, fervent support within the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) remains unwavering.

On November 6, as Biya marked 41 years in power, militants across the country clamored for him to lead as their candidate in the impending elections.

However, amidst the proliferation of parties, there’s a growing desire among many Cameroonians for a unified opposition to challenge President Biya’s government in the forthcoming elections.

Yet, toppling the CPDM in 2025 appears to be a formidable task.

This is given the party’s firm grip on the country.

Presently, Biya’s CPDM commands a substantial 84 percent control in the Parliament, boasting 152 out of 180 Parliamentary seats.

The party won all 70 Senatorial seats in the elections this year. The opposition only found a way into the upper house after Biya appointed some of their members among 30 appointed Senators.

As aspirations for change intensify and political dynamics evolve, the emergence of these new parties adds layers to the intricate fabric of Cameroon’s political landscape.

It sets the stage for a compelling and potentially transformative electoral landscape come 2025.

Mimi Mefo Info