No Mention of Biya’s Candidacy in Bishops’ Communiqué

The much-anticipated communiqué from the Bishops of Cameroon, issued this Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the conclusion of the 48th Annual Seminar in Buea, notably avoids any mention of President Paul Biya’s potential candidacy in the upcoming elections. A copy seen by MMI, avoids the one thing many Cameroonians were expecting to hear.

Despite featuring 11 key declarations—among them a strong call for massive voter participation in the 2025 presidential polls—the communiqué refrains from singling out any individual political figure or party. This silence is striking, given the widespread expectation that the bishops would use this platform to weigh in on the contentious issue of Biya’s candidacy. The soon-to-be 92-year-old president has served six terms, and public sentiment had predicted a possible call from the clergy for him to step aside. MMI is however, aware of some of the bishops receiving subtle threats from the Biya administration, which could have influenced their final communique.

The document was read by the Secretary General, Mgr. Paul Nyaga, on Friday, January 10, 2025, during the closing session. It touched on significant national concerns, including the rising cost of living, the importance of synodality, and the necessity of robust electoral participation. Yet, the absence of any direct reference to Biya’s political future has raised eyebrows.

This omission contrasts sharply with prior public remarks from some bishops who have individually suggested that Biya, after decades of leadership, should retire and make way for new leadership.

People speculate whether the bishops deliberately chose to sidestep the topic or received advice against addressing it during their discussions. The collective silence of the college of bishops on such a polarizing issue has left the public and political analysts speculating about potential behind-the-scenes influences or a strategic decision to maintain neutrality.

Mimi Mefo Info