Léon Theillier Onana, a municipal councillor and outspoken critic of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), has unleashed a scathing attack on Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) and the political establishment after his bid for president was turned down.
In a strongly worded public statement released Saturday, Onana accused ELECAM of orchestrating his disqualification in coordination with powerful conservative factions within the regime. He denounced what he described as a “grotesque and disgraceful fake document” used to sabotage his candidacy and announced plans to pursue legal action for identity and signature theft.
“This is our firm response to the manipulation and destabilization attempt by the forgers and conservatives who run Cameroon,” Onana said, calling the rejection a “last-ditch tactic” to silence political alternatives within the CPDM itself.
Despite his bid being blocked, Onana vowed not to back down.
“I take note of the rejection of my candidacy, but I say it firmly: the fight for legality and justice continues. We will take all necessary legal measures to ensure our voices are heard,” he said.
A Direct Challenge to the Regime
Onana’s statement also delivered veiled criticism of President Paul Biya, who at 92 is running for an eighth term.
“Could I ever ask forgiveness from a man who betrayed the ideals of integrity and morality he himself promised — and who, in fact, is politically out of touch at 92?” he asked rhetorically. This response is also, however, a reaction to some false media reports that indicated he had apologised to Biya.
His comments are among the boldest public challenges to Biya from within the CPDM ranks, highlighting growing internal dissent as the country prepares for a high-stakes presidential election on October 12, 2025.
Appeal to Youth and Voters
Addressing Cameroon’s youth, Onana urged vigilance, defiance, and unity against what he called the regime’s lies.
“Stay awake, stay standing. Don’t listen to their lies. We have a shared goal — the liberation of our nation,” he said.
He closed the statement with a call to resistance:
“We will not give up. The fight continues. We will win.”
ELECAM has not yet responded publicly to the allegations, but the rejection of Onana’s candidacy has further fueled concerns over transparency and inclusivity in the electoral process.
