As Cameroon prepares for its highly anticipated presidential election in October 2025, political maneuvering is in full swing. One of the latest developments is the designation of Issa Tchiroma Bakary as a “consensus candidate” by certain political factions. However, the move has been sharply criticized by opposition leader Cabral Libii, who downplayed the announcement as a “non-event.”
The Background
Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a long-time political figure and former government minister, has been active in Cameroonian politics for decades. He is known for his leadership of the National Front for Democracy (FRODEBU) and has held key positions under President Paul Biya’s government. His designation as a consensus candidate was presented as an attempt to unify some opposition voices ahead of the polls.
Yet, the announcement has sparked debate within the political landscape, with many questioning whether it represents genuine unity or simply a symbolic gesture.
Cabral Libii’s Response
Cabral Libii, leader of the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation (PCRN) and one of the most prominent opposition voices, was quick to dismiss the move. Referring to Tchiroma’s candidacy as a “non-event,” Libii argued that the development has little significance in shaping the real dynamics of the upcoming election.
According to Libii, the Cameroonian people are more concerned about concrete solutions to unemployment, poverty, and insecurity than about political declarations. “What matters to citizens is not symbolic candidacies, but real change,” he said in a recent interview.
The Stakes of the 2025 Election
Cameroon’s 2025 presidential election is one of the most critical in the country’s modern history. President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982, has not yet confirmed whether he will seek re-election. His decision could dramatically shape the political field.
With the country facing economic challenges, separatist conflicts in the Anglophone regions, and widespread discontent with governance, the stakes are higher than ever. Many citizens and civil society organizations are demanding reforms to ensure fair and transparent elections.
Opposition Dynamics
The opposition landscape in Cameroon remains fragmented. While some factions seek to rally behind consensus candidates like Issa Tchiroma, others argue that only a unified, broad-based coalition can effectively challenge Biya’s long-standing dominance.
Cabral Libii has consistently positioned himself as a reformist alternative, appealing particularly to younger voters frustrated with decades of the same political leadership. His dismissal of Tchiroma’s candidacy reflects a broader frustration with what he and his supporters see as recycled politics.
Conclusion
The designation of Issa Tchiroma Bakary as a consensus candidate adds another chapter to Cameroon’s complex political narrative ahead of the 2025 elections. However, Cabral Libii’s sharp dismissal of the move as a “non-event” highlights the skepticism many feel about political symbolism without substance.
As the October vote approaches, the real test will be whether the opposition can find a formula to unify and address the pressing issues facing Cameroon — or whether fragmented strategies will once again leave the ruling establishment in a position of strength.