Maurice Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), has launched a fundraising initiative to generate FCFA 6 billion for his 2025 presidential campaign.
Announcing this bold move at a press conference in Yaounde, Thursday, January 30, Kamto emphasized that he would raise the funds exclusively from Cameroonians both at home and in the diaspora, excluding any foreign contributions.
Addressing journalists, Kamto stated that the initiative aims to ensure an independent campaign free from external influence.
“We want this campaign to be powered by the people, for the people,” he declared.
“Every franc contributed will be a step toward breaking the cycle of governance that has held Cameroon back.”
The former Minister Delegate and 2018 presidential runner-up believes this initiative will foster greater citizen participation and ownership of his vision for the country.
He said his party will collect the funds through a secure digital platform, with contributors receiving official receipts and symbolic rewards such as badges and virtual meetings with the candidate.
Kamto’s approach draws inspiration from international political campaigns, particularly in the United States and Europe, where politicians have successfully used crowdfunding to finance political movements.
According to CRM officials, this method not only secures funding but also strengthens the legitimacy of a candidate by demonstrating grassroots support.
Political analysts, however, caution that this strategy faces significant hurdles.
“Political donation culture in Cameroon remains weak,” notes Dr. Jean-Benoît Essomba, a political scientist at the University of Yaoundé.
“Additionally, the ruling party’s control over financial institutions may lead to increased scrutiny or restrictions on transactions linked to the opposition.”
Having secured 14 percent of the vote in 2018, Kamto remains one of the leading contenders for the 2025 presidential race.
However, his ability to mobilise financial resources will be a critical test of his electoral strength.
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