As Cameroon inches closer to its October 12th presidential election, a powerful and unequivocal voice has joined the chorus of concern. Bishop Paul Lontsié-Keuné of Bafoussam has delivered a stark warning to the government, putting them on “red alert” with his latest remarks. He is not merely calling for a free and fair election; he is making a moral and pastoral appeal for a peaceful and just process, highlighting the profound risks of a nation on the brink.

Bishop Lontsié-Keuné’s comments come at a critical juncture. The political climate is charged, marked by the recent controversial exclusion of key opposition figures, most notably Maurice Kamto, from the ballot. This decision, upheld by the Constitutional Council, has ignited public outrage and fueled accusations of a manipulated electoral system. The Bishop’s remarks resonate deeply with the widespread sentiment that the government is actively suppressing dissent and eliminating political competition, a tactic that has historically led to violence and instability in the country.

His critique is not a partisan one, but rather a reflection of the Church’s role as a moral compass in society. By speaking out against the exclusion of opposition figures and the suppression of public freedoms, the Bishop is echoing the fears of many ordinary Cameroonians who believe their voices are being silenced. He is raising a fundamental question: can an election be considered legitimate when key contenders are barred from participating, and when the very institutions meant to ensure fairness are perceived as being under the control of the ruling party?

The Bishop’s plea for peace is not an abstract one. It is rooted in the lived reality of a nation grappling with multiple crises. The ongoing Anglophone conflict, the fight against Boko Haram in the Far North, and the rising ethnic tensions all serve as tinder for potential post-election violence. A contested or flawed election result could easily ignite these simmering tensions, plunging the country into deeper turmoil.

In putting the government on “red alert,” Bishop Lontsié-Keuné is serving as a prophet of peace, urging a course correction before it’s too late. His message is a powerful reminder that stability is not just a matter of military force or political control, but of justice, inclusivity, and respect for the will of the people. It is a call for a dialogue that includes all stakeholders and for a political process that is truly reflective of a democratic society. The government, and indeed all political actors, would do well to heed his warning. The future of Cameroon depends on it.