Cameroonian politician Abel Elimbi Lobe announces he is withdrawing support for Akere Muna following Muna’s decision to align with Bello Bouba Maigari.

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A Political Shift

The 2025 presidential campaign in Cameroon has taken another dramatic turn. Political figure Abel Elimbi Lobe has declared that he is officially withdrawing his support for Akere Muna, citing the latter’s decision to align with veteran politician Bello Bouba Maigari.

The announcement adds a new layer of complexity to an already dynamic political landscape, where alliances and rivalries continue to shape the strategies of opposition candidates.

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Why Elimbi Lobe Made His Decision

In his public statement, Abel Elimbi Lobe expressed disappointment over Akere Muna’s rapprochement with Bello Bouba Maigari. According to him, this political move runs counter to the ideals he expected Muna to uphold as a candidate for change and renewal.

“I cannot support a candidate who chooses to align with forces that, in my view, do not represent the political transformation our country needs,” Elimbi Lobe said.

This clear break highlights the tensions and disagreements within the opposition camp regarding strategy, alliances, and the best path forward to challenge the ruling party.

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Implications for Akere Muna’s Campaign

Akere Muna’s recent decision to step aside from his presidential bid and endorse Bello Bouba Maigari was initially seen as a move to unify opposition voices and avoid splitting the vote. However, Elimbi Lobe’s withdrawal of support shows that not all allies see the alliance in a positive light.

For Muna, the loss of Elimbi Lobe’s backing could weaken his credibility among some segments of the electorate, particularly those who had looked to his candidacy as a fresh alternative.

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Bello Bouba at the Center of Attention

Bello Bouba Maigari, a seasoned political actor with decades of experience, finds himself at the heart of these shifting dynamics. While the endorsement by Akere Muna boosts his campaign, it simultaneously creates friction within the broader opposition movement.

Supporters argue that Bello Bouba’s experience and national network make him a strong candidate, but critics—like Elimbi Lobe—fear that his political legacy may not represent the change Cameroon’s younger generation is demanding.

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Broader Political Landscape

The episode reflects a deeper challenge facing Cameroon’s opposition: how to build unity without sacrificing principles. As alliances form and dissolve, voters may grow skeptical of political maneuvering and demand more clarity on candidates’ visions for governance, democracy, and development.

Analysts suggest that such shifts could either fragment the opposition further or force candidates to rethink their strategies in order to maintain credibility and win public trust.

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Conclusion

Abel Elimbi Lobe’s withdrawal of support for Akere Muna underscores the fragile nature of political alliances in Cameroon’s presidential race. While Akere Muna hoped his alignment with Bello Bouba Maigari would strengthen the opposition, it has also cost him valuable support.

As the 2025 election approaches, these dynamics reveal the delicate balance between unity and division within the opposition—and how every decision can reshape the path to power.