Maurice Kamto, Chairman of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), has opined that President Paul Biya’s regime has become “Cameroon’s problem” and is incapable of contributing to the nation’s recovery.
In his end-of-year speech broadcast at 8 p.m. on December 31, 2023, concurrently with President Biya’s, Kamto urged citizens to join an opposition coalition, the PAC, to take over the government.
“It is important to remember that the PAC remains open to all those who believe that the current regime is now Cameroon’s problem and therefore can no longer contribute anything to its recovery. Our compatriots in the ruling CPDM party who demonstrate a patriotic reawakening are also welcome in the PAC,” the opposition leader said.
This move by Kamto comes at a crucial time as the country gears up for the 2025 elections, with President Biya, who has ruled for 41 years now, showing no signs of relinquishing power, although he turned 90 this year.
Supporters of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), where Biya has been chairman since its foundation in 1985, continued calling for his candidature for the elections.
In his end-of-year address, President Biya acknowledged the unwavering support from CPDM militants, stating that Cameroonians “massively trust” him.
He expressed determination in the face of numerous challenges and insisted that his government had continued its actions with increased resolve throughout the past year.
Kamto’s discourse seized on perceived government shortcomings, particularly in the areas of the economy, social amenities, security, and governance.
With corruption still a major problem, the country also grapples with decreasing records on press freedom and human rights.
The year 2023 also witnessed a sharp decline in living conditions, marked by soaring prices of essential goods, fuel, and building materials.
Power fluctuations persisted as a major issue, and the country’s road network faced dire conditions.
President Biya, however, said his government is addressing these problems progressively, but that financial deficits pose a major problem.
Notably, Kamto underscored the human toll of armed conflicts in various regions, with hundreds losing their lives, and thousands falling into poverty each year.
The opposition leader’s call for unity against the current administration resonates with a populace grappling with economic challenges, infrastructural woes, and the persistent impact of conflicts.
President Biya’s message, on the other hand, encouraged Cameroonians to “continue to cope, together” and remain focused on progress.
The stark contrast between the perspectives of the incumbent government and the opposition sets the stage for intensified political dynamics in the lead-up to the crucial 2025 elections.
