The North West Region of Cameroon is facing a significant challenge in the lead-up to the 2025 presidential elections, with voter apathy and security concerns threatening to undermine the electoral process. According to Elvis Mbowoh, Regional Delegate of Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) for the North West Region, the region has a total of 621,253 registered voters, with females constituting 54% and males 46%.
However, despite the region's large voter population, ELECAM has recorded a low voter registration rate, with only 35% of the targeted 45,000 potential electors registering within the revision period. Mbowoh attributed this to strong voter apathy, serious insecurity, and the passive attitude of commission members and other stakeholders.
The region's electoral registers reveal some interesting statistics. Mezam Division tops the chart with 33% of the region's total registered voters, followed by Bui Division with 17%, and Donga Mantung Division with 15%. The divisions with the lowest percentage of registered voters are Menchum with 8% and Ngoketunjia with 9%.
In terms of age demographics, adults from 35 years and above constitute 70% of the region's registered voters, while youths from 20 to 35 years make up 30%. Mbowoh expressed concern over the low registration rate among youths, urging them to participate more actively in the electoral process.
The security situation in the region is also a major concern. ELECAM has identified 117 public structures to host polling stations in the region, but the Delegate emphasized that the final decision on polling stations will depend on the security situation at the time of the elections.
Dr. Enow Abrams Egbe, Chairman of the Electoral Board of ELECAM, emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement in ensuring peaceful and credible elections. He highlighted the need for all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and traditional rulers, to work together to promote transparency, inclusion, and accountability in the electoral process.
The 3rd edition of the Regional Platform for Permanent Consultation, held on April 26, 2025, at the North West Regional Assembly, brought together stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities involved in the organization of the 2025 presidential election. The platform aimed to identify key stakeholders, address strategies for boosting inclusion and participation, and analyze the risks and challenges involved in the electoral process.
As the region moves towards the presidential elections, it remains to be seen whether the challenges of voter apathy and security concerns will be adequately addressed. However, with the commitment of ELECAM and the collaboration of stakeholders, there is hope that the electoral process will be peaceful, transparent, and credible.
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