Presidential Poll: Voting Begins in Cameroon as Paul Biya Eyes Eighth Term!

Sele Media Africa
www.selemedia.org
Reported by David Joshua | Sele Media Africa

Cameroonians have gone to the polls today, October 12, 2025, in a highly contested presidential election that could deliver President Paul Biya an unprecedented eighth term in power. [1]

At 92 years old, Biya is already one of the world’s oldest national leaders, having held power since 1982. [2] Despite concerns over his age and health, he remains the favorite to win, bolstered by his longstanding control of state institutions and a fragmented opposition. [1]

Opposition, Disqualifications & Criticism
The election is marked by serious controversy. The candidacy of one of the most prominent opposition figures, Maurice Kamto, was barred by the Constitutional Council, further weakening the opposition’s prospects. [3] Human rights groups and international observers have raised concerns about restrictions on opposition activities, alleged bias by the electoral commission (ELECAM), and limits on free political space ahead of polling. [4]

Voter Turnout & Security

Over 8 million registered Cameroonians are expected to vote across 31,000 polling stations spanning both domestic and diaspora locations. [4] The vote is unfolding under tight security, especially in regions affected by anglophone separatist conflict and Islamist insurgencies. [4]

What’s at Stake
A win for Biya would consolidate his grip on power even further, with critics arguing that this election represents more of a referendum on continuity than a true contest. [2] For many Cameroonians, frustrations over the economy, unemployment, and long-standing regional marginalization have led to growing disillusionment with the political status quo. [5]

Sele Media Africa will keep you updated as results begin to emerge and reactions pour in across the country.

Citations:

1. Reuters: www.reuters.com/world/africa/cameroon-holds-presidential-election-biya-seeks-extend-four-decade-iron-grip-2025-10-12/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. The Guardian: www.theguardian.com/world/2025/oct/12/cameroon-president-paul-biya-favourite-win-election?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. AP News: apnews.com/article/c643ab44f7c7b846a00ad5bfcbe28759?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4. AP News: apnews.com/article/161234517f711518a41d66a29357eac8?utm_source=chatgpt.com
5. AP News: apnews.com/article/09457b9ce277b3ce96056cadcdc9ffb0?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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