Yaounde – Vote counting is underway in Cameroon following Sunday’s presidential election that could extend President Paul Biya’s 43-year hold on power. The 92-year-old leader, the world’s oldest head of state, is widely expected to secure another term despite a wave of opposition calls for change.
Biya, who first assumed office in 1982, cast his vote in Yaoundé’s Bastos neighbourhood near the presidential palace. Surrounded by tight security, he urged patience as the nation awaits official results. “Nothing is given. Let’s wait and see. Let’s wait for the name of the winner,” he told journalists after voting.
More than eight million Cameroonians were registered to vote, with results expected within 15 days. The country does not conduct exit polls.
Among Biya’s challengers is 76-year-old Issa Tchiroma, a former government spokesperson who has drawn large crowds at campaign rallies and secured the backing of a coalition of opposition parties and civic groups. Tchiroma voted in his hometown of Garoua, where he told reporters the election reflects the people’s desire for change.
“This election comes at a time when the whole nation aspires for change,” he said, urging citizens to ensure transparency in the counting process.
Tensions flared in Garoua after security forces fired teargas to disperse hundreds of Tchiroma’s supporters who gathered near his home after the area was cordoned off.
Despite growing discontent over decades of economic stagnation, analysts say Biya remains the favourite. His dominance over state institutions and a fragmented opposition of nine candidates make an upset unlikely.
Biya’s campaign, run under the slogan “Greatness and Hope”, relied heavily on state media and online messaging rather than mass rallies. His only major appearance was in Maroua, in the country’s north, where he pledged further economic development.
Cameroon’s electoral system awards the presidency to the candidate with the most votes in a single round, even without an outright majority. Biya abolished term limits in 2008, a move that solidified his grip on power.
Some voters expressed frustration with the lack of political renewal. “I’m 43 years old. I’ve never known another president,” said Magdalene Tientcheu, a voter in Douala. “I voted for a new face. I want to see change.”
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