Cameroonian politician Grégoire Owona criticizes Bello Bouba and Issa Tchiroma, accusing them of discrediting themselves through their political actions and conduct.
Cameroon’s political scene has been marked by sharp exchanges as the 2025 presidential elections approach. In one of the latest controversies, Grégoire Owona, a senior member of the ruling RDPC (Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement), has openly criticized opposition figures Bello Bouba Maïgari and Issa Tchiroma Bakary, accusing them of undermining their credibility through their “way of doing things and their way of being.”
This blunt statement has ignited debate across the political spectrum, highlighting the growing tension between ruling elites and prominent opposition leaders.
Owona’s Strong Words
Grégoire Owona, often regarded as one of President Paul Biya’s loyal defenders, did not mince his words. According to him, Bello and Tchiroma—both long-time actors on Cameroon’s political stage—have lost the trust of the public due to their inconsistent positions, political maneuvers, and controversial alliances.
“They have discredited themselves by their way of doing things and by their way of being,” Owona declared, suggesting that their leadership style no longer inspires confidence among Cameroonians.
A Swipe at Two Political Veterans
Bello Bouba Maïgari, leader of the National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP), has often been criticized for maintaining ambiguous ties with the ruling party, while Issa Tchiroma Bakary, leader of the FSNC (Front for the National Salvation of Cameroon), is seen by some as opportunistic in his political positioning.
By targeting these two figures, Owona appears to be reinforcing a narrative that only the RDPC offers stability and legitimacy, while its rivals are weakened by inconsistency and self-interest.
Political Implications
Owona’s remarks carry significant weight. As the country gears up for elections, the credibility of opposition figures will be a deciding factor in whether they can present a viable alternative to President Biya and the RDPC. By painting Bello and Tchiroma as discredited, Owona not only undermines their personal standing but also weakens broader opposition unity.
His comments also reflect the RDPC’s confidence in its ability to discredit rivals ahead of the vote, a strategy that has worked in the past to fragment and demoralize the opposition.
Public Reactions
Unsurprisingly, Owona’s statement has provoked mixed reactions. Supporters of the ruling party echoed his sentiments, claiming that Bello and Tchiroma have long lost touch with the population. Critics, however, argue that Owona’s remarks are a tactic to distract from the RDPC’s own failures, such as persistent unemployment, governance challenges, and public discontent.
On social media, debates have been fierce, with some users agreeing that the two opposition figures have failed to embody strong leadership, while others insist that Owona’s criticism is hypocritical coming from a representative of the ruling elite.
Conclusion
Grégoire Owona’s declaration that “Bello and Tchiroma have discredited themselves by their way of doing things and their way of being” highlights the increasingly hostile tone of Cameroon’s political discourse. Whether true or politically motivated, his comments reflect the ruling party’s determination to weaken the credibility of its rivals ahead of the elections.
As Cameroon inches closer to the polls, such exchanges will only intensify, shaping public perception of who has the moral and political authority to lead the nation forward.