Prof Maurice Kamto, the President of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), has issued a stern warning to his party militants, advising them to steer clear of any involvement with President Paul Biya’s government.
In a public letter, Kamto alleged that the current regime is employing various strategies to destabilise the CRM and tarnish his reputation in an effort to hinder his candidature for the 2025 presidential elections.
“We have been, for a while now, in a period when, more than in the past, the regime in place multiplies maneuvers of destabilisation of our party, defamation, and discredit of its national president, whose candidature they have decided to stop by the end of 2024,” Kamto wrote.
He further warned that these tactics would intensify as the crucial electoral deadline approaches.
Kamto’s message to his followers was clear: be vigilant and resist any overtures from the regime.
He emphasized the grave consequences of yielding to such temptations, stating, “To succumb to the frivolous charms of those who led our country to ruin is to accept your unreserved condemnation and that of your families by the history of our nation.”
In his recent outing, Kamto suggested attempts by the regime to water down his party’s influence.
He urged his militants not to take any actions on behalf of the CRM or himself, such as attending meetings or acting as intermediaries.
“I did not send anyone anywhere on any political mission to the regime. Protect your image, and don’t make the mistake of shooting sessions with people who will use them for hidden purposes. I have said. So that it be well known,” Kamto declared.
Kamto’s caution comes in the wake of President Paul Biya’s recent signing and promulgation of a bill extending the mandate of legislative and municipal authorities until 2026.
This legislation has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it effectively disqualifies the CRM from fielding a candidate in the upcoming elections under the current electoral law.
Kamto’s potential path to candidacy may now depend on affiliating with a different party that has a council or parliamentary representation.
The CRM leader’s warning depicts the tense political climate in Cameroon as the country approaches the 2025 presidential elections.
