Political tensions rise in Cameroon as Jeanne Nsoga, expelled from the FSNC by Issa Tchiroma, announces her support for President Paul Biya.
Cameroon’s political landscape has been rocked by fresh controversy following the decision of Issa Tchiroma Bakary, leader of the Front for the National Salvation of Cameroon (FSNC), to expel prominent member Jeanne Nsoga from the party. The expulsion, which comes ahead of the highly anticipated presidential elections, has already sparked debate, especially after Nsoga declared that she will now openly support President Paul Biya.
Jeanne Nsoga’s Expulsion
Jeanne Nsoga, once considered an influential voice within the FSNC, was dismissed by party leader Issa Tchiroma in what has been described as a decisive move to maintain unity and discipline within the party. While Tchiroma has not provided extensive public details about the reasons for her exclusion, sources suggest internal disagreements and ideological differences may have played a role.
The FSNC, which positions itself as a pro-government party but has its own political ambitions, has faced internal tensions in the buildup to the 2025 elections. Nsoga’s sudden departure highlights the fragile balance within smaller parties navigating the country’s complex political environment.
Nsoga Declares Support for Paul Biya
Following her expulsion, Jeanne Nsoga wasted no time in making her political intentions clear. In a bold statement, she affirmed that she will throw her weight behind incumbent President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982 and is preparing for yet another presidential run.
“I will vote for Paul Biya,” Nsoga declared, stressing that she believes in his leadership and vision for Cameroon. Her endorsement, though unexpected, has drawn mixed reactions from both FSNC supporters and members of the ruling CPDM (Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement).
Political Implications
Nsoga’s declaration is significant because it underscores the ongoing fragmentation within Cameroon’s opposition and allied political parties. For Paul Biya, who has built a vast political network over decades, endorsements from figures like Nsoga reinforce his image as the ultimate unifying candidate.
For Issa Tchiroma, however, this development could be seen as a challenge to his authority. By expelling Nsoga, he risks alienating a segment of FSNC supporters who may follow her in backing Biya directly. This could weaken the FSNC’s bargaining power in the upcoming elections.
Reactions Across the Political Spectrum
The news has generated heated debate across Cameroon. Supporters of Jeanne Nsoga argue that her decision to back Paul Biya shows political maturity and loyalty to national stability. On the other hand, critics say her move reflects opportunism and undermines the opposition’s ability to present alternatives to Biya’s decades-long rule.
Political analysts note that Cameroon’s electoral dynamics are deeply influenced by loyalty shifts among smaller party figures. Even if Nsoga’s support does not significantly change the overall balance, it adds symbolic weight to Biya’s campaign.
Conclusion
The expulsion of Jeanne Nsoga from the FSNC and her subsequent endorsement of President Paul Biya underline the fluid nature of Cameroonian politics. As the 2025 elections draw closer, such shifts in loyalty will likely play an important role in shaping narratives and strategies.
For Issa Tchiroma, the move signals a challenge to his leadership. For Paul Biya, it is yet another sign that, despite criticisms and calls for change, his political dominance remains intact.