Introduction

As Cameroon prepares for the 2025 presidential election, tensions are rising within the National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP). A growing number of grassroots members are openly calling on their leader, Bello Bouba Maigari, to take a firm stance and break ties with the long-standing Biya system. For many within the party, remaining aligned with the ruling establishment is seen as a betrayal of the UNDP’s original mission: defending democracy, justice, and progress for all Cameroonians.

The Roots of Discontent

For decades, the UNDP has played a balancing act—sometimes positioning itself as an opposition force, and at other times cooperating with the government. While this strategy has allowed the party to remain relevant, many members believe it has weakened its credibility and diluted its identity as a genuine alternative to the ruling party.

Grassroots militants argue that the political climate in 2025 demands clarity. To them, continued association with the Biya regime represents stagnation, while the population is increasingly demanding change, accountability, and leadership renewal.

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Why the Break Matters

The call for rupture is not just symbolic—it carries deep political implications. If Bello Bouba decides to cut ties with the Biya system, the UNDP could:

• Reclaim Its Opposition Identity – Position itself as a credible voice for change.
• Mobilize Disillusioned Voters – Many Cameroonians are frustrated with the current state of governance and could rally behind a renewed UNDP.
• Strengthen Opposition Coalitions – A clear stance would make the party more attractive for alliances with figures like Maurice Kamto, Joshua Osih, and others seeking unity.

For militants, the time has come for the UNDP to stop playing the middle ground and embrace its original spirit of progressive politics.

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The Pressure on Bello Bouba

Bello Bouba Maigari, who has been a prominent political figure since the 1990s, is now facing one of the biggest decisions of his career. Breaking with the Biya system would mark a historic shift—but it also carries risks.

• Risk of Losing Privileges – His party’s cooperation with the regime has guaranteed some level of influence within government.
• Uncertain Future – Entering the opposition fully could challenge the party’s financial and structural stability.
• Internal Divisions – Not all party elites may support such a radical move, leading to potential fractures within the UNDP.

Still, the mounting grassroots pressure suggests that inaction may be costlier than change.

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The Bigger Political Picture

The UNDP’s internal debate reflects a broader reality in Cameroon’s politics: the demand for renewal is growing louder. With the ruling party facing unprecedented scrutiny and the opposition striving to unite, smaller but historic parties like the UNDP are being forced to choose sides.

In many ways, the grassroots call represents the voice of ordinary citizens: tired of half-measures, they want bold leadership and clear commitments.

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The demand from UNDP militants for Bello Bouba to break with the Biya system could be a turning point for both the party and Cameroon’s political landscape. By embracing change, the UNDP has the chance to reclaim its relevance and help shape a new era of leadership.

For Bello Bouba, the decision will not only define his legacy but could also determine whether the UNDP remains a secondary player—or rises as a true force for democratic transformation in 202