IN a move signalling heightened political tension, the Cameroon government has issued a stern warning, threatening to arrest members of two opposition parties accused of plotting to form coalitions aimed at toppling President Paul Biya from his 40-year reign.
Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji declared the activities of the Political Alliance for Change and the Alliance for Political Transition illegal, emphasising that only legally recognised political parties are permitted to engage in political activities within Cameroon’s borders. Nji’s directive comes amid growing opposition movements seeking a transition away from Biya’s long-standing rule.
Opposition and civil society groups have condemned the government’s actions, viewing the ban on the two alliances as an assault on democratic principles and fundamental freedoms. Roger Justin Noah, spokesperson for the Cameroon Renaissance Movement, affirmed that opposition forces would not succumb to intimidation, asserting that the government’s apprehension stems from the surging popularity of opposition leader Maurice Kamto, who heads the Political Alliance for Change.
Kamto, a vocal critic of Biya’s administration, contends that he won the 2018 presidential election, alleging electoral fraud by Biya’s camp. The Political Alliance for Change is mobilising discontented Cameroonians to participate in the 2025 presidential elections, urging vigilance against fraud and irregularities.
However, government spokesperson Rene Emmanuel Sadi dismissed the opposition’s concerns, asserting that Biya’s presidency remains undisputed, and state institutions are functioning adequately. Sadi dismissed allegations of electoral manipulation and stressed that Biya would announce his candidacy for the 2025 elections at the appropriate time.
In a further escalation, the government warned of impending arrests for members of the alliances accused of engaging with incarcerated rebel leaders in efforts to negotiate an end to the separatist crisis in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions. The separatists seek autonomy from the French-speaking majority, aggravating tensions in the country.
Biya, one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, has faced criticism for his authoritarian rule, with opposition factions accusing him of clinging to power at all costs. Despite mounting pressure, Biya’s supporters maintain his commitment to democratic processes, emphasizing stability and continuity in governance.