As Cameroon heads toward the 2025 presidential election, political tensions are heating up. One of the strongest voices in the opposition, Maurice Kamto, has issued a powerful appeal to his fellow candidates. Speaking directly to the 11 declared opposition figures, Kamto urged them to unite under a common front to challenge the long-standing rule of President Paul Biya and his Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM).
A Call for Opposition Solidarity
In his statement, Kamto emphasized that the fragmentation of opposition forces has been one of the main reasons for Biya’s continued dominance in Cameroonian politics. “As long as we remain divided, the regime will continue to exploit our weaknesses,” he declared. “Unity is not a choice — it is a necessity if we want to liberate Cameroon.”
Kamto’s words come at a critical moment. With 11 opposition candidates already positioning themselves for the race, many observers fear that a split vote will once again give Biya and his party an easy path to victory, despite widespread calls for change.
The Weight of History
Cameroon’s political opposition has long struggled with disunity. During past elections, rivalries, ideological differences, and personal ambitions have consistently prevented the formation of a unified front. The result has been predictable: the ruling CPDM has maintained its grip on power for over four decades.
For Kamto, who contested the 2018 presidential election and claimed victory before official results handed Biya another term, this history of fragmentation cannot be repeated in 2025. He argues that the stakes are simply too high.
Why Unity Matters in 2025
Beyond the symbolism, a united opposition would significantly strengthen the chances of electoral success. Analysts believe that if opposition parties were to rally behind a single candidate, the political momentum could shift dramatically. Such a move could also energize the population, many of whom have grown disillusioned with elections they see as predetermined.
Kamto also insists that unity is not just about strategy but about restoring hope. “The Cameroonian people want change. They want leadership that listens to them, that fights corruption, and that rebuilds our economy. To give them that hope, we must stand together,” he said.
Reactions Within the Opposition
While some opposition figures have expressed openness to dialogue, others remain skeptical, citing ideological differences or mistrust. Still, pressure from civil society and the diaspora is mounting, with many calling on opposition leaders to put aside egos and focus on the bigger picture — freeing Cameroon from decades of stagnation.
Conclusion
Maurice Kamto’s appeal to the 11 opposition candidates is more than a political gesture; it is a challenge to history. For decades, division has been the Achilles heel of Cameroon’s opposition. As the 2025 presidential election approaches, the question is clear: will the opposition finally unite and give Cameroonians a real chance at change, or will fragmentation once again hand victory to the ruling establishment?
The answer could determine not just the outcome of an election, but the future of a nation.