In a bold departure from Cameroon’s status quo, presidential candidate Ateki Seta Caxton has launched a sweeping vision for national transformation, vowing to dismantle entrenched systems of power and steer the country into what he calls a new era of Acoloniality, a philosophy rooted in African agency and post-colonial independence.
Unveiling his manifesto during a press conference in Yaoundé on August 1, 2025, the Liberal Alliance Party (PAL) candidate declared that Cameroon’s current governance model has collapsed under “42 years of economic mismanagement, corruption, and institutional decay.” Ateki presented himself as the alternative: a reformist outsider with a blueprint for political, economic, and social overhaul.
Breaking with the Past: A Radical Agenda
At the core of Ateki’s proposal is a reimagined republic. He’s advocating for a 10-state federal system with elected governors, an ambitious political restructuring designed to redistribute power. Even the country’s name would change under his plan, rebranded as The Great Republic of Cameroon.
To address corruption, Ateki promised full enforcement of Article 66 of the Constitution, which mandates asset declarations by public officials. He also vowed to withdraw from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), replacing donor-dependency with a self-funded economy focused on manufacturing, infrastructure, and economic sovereignty including the creation of a national currency.
Youth and Job Creation at the Center
A key pillar of his plan is employment, particularly among youth. Through what he calls the Golden Job Hubs initiative, Ateki aims to generate 100,000 jobs by 2030. Vocational training, entrepreneurship support, and youth-focused policies would be central to this strategy.
His vision also includes strengthening social systems particularly in health and education. He proposed the establishment of Health Technology Innovation Hubs and vowed to expand universal health coverage to reach more citizens.
Tackling National Crises Head-On
On national unity, Ateki positioned himself as a reconciler. He committed to freeing political prisoners, launching dialogue on the Anglophone crisis, and reforming the electoral system, including measures to ensure the independence of elections body ELECAM.
His manifesto also addressed security issues, promising better maritime patrols to curb illegal fishing and piracy, alongside the creation of a Unified National Army and a digital citizen ID system for every Cameroonian.
Cultural Revival, Diaspora Inclusion, and Gender Equality
Ateki’s plans extend beyond infrastructure and governance. He pledged to elevate Cameroonian cultures and traditions, expand women’s rights, support national sports, and strengthen ties with the diaspora through an investment fund and legalised dual nationality.
“I am the voice of those whose voices have been silenced for too long,” Ateki declared, calling on Cameroonians to back his bid for a more inclusive and sovereign future. “Let us all seize this moment to transform our country.”
Party Leadership Backs the Call for Change
PAL President His Majesty Celestin Bedzigui echoed the candidate’s message, urging Cameroonians to break free from “clan, regional, or tribal divisions” and rally around a common national purpose.
“Change is within reach,” Bedzigui said. “It’s time to build a citizen majority capable of reclaiming the state.”
With just two months until the October 12 election, Ateki's message is clear: the path to a “glorious, prosperous, and dignified nation” lies in bold reform and in the hands of Cameroonian voters.
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