As political tension builds in Cameroon ahead of the October 12, 2025 presidential election, the Cameroon Democratic Union (UDC) has issued a powerful declaration denouncing what it calls “incoherent and politically motivated” rejections of opposition candidates by the country’s Constitutional Council.
In a public statement released on August 5, 2025, and signed by Hon. Tomaino Ndam Njoya, Mayor of Foumban and spokesperson for the Regional Councillors of Noun, the UDC accuses the current regime of orchestrating a systematic clampdown on democratic processes.
The party, founded by the late Dr. Adamou Ndam Njoya, called on Cameroonians, international allies, and global institutions to “stand up” for democracy in Cameroon.
Controversial Rejections Stir Political Outcry
The UDC's declaration follows widespread discontent sparked by the Council’s disqualification of several high-profile presidential hopefuls. Chief among them is Professor Maurice Kamto, a key opposition leader, whose candidacy was rejected for reasons the UDC describes as “flagrantly incoherent, unfounded, and even deceitful.”
Press Statement.Equally controversial is the case of Hilaire Dzipang, whose candidacy had initially been validated but was later annulled in a move described by critics as a “parody of justice.”
These developments have left many Cameroonians frustrated and suspicious of the electoral process, as faith in the country’s democratic institutions continues to erode.
A System Under Fire
The UDC asserts that these rejections are symptomatic of a deeper systemic problem, the politicization of electoral institutions under a regime “on the brink.” The statement criticizes the dominance of an “Etat-Parti”, a state-party system which, according to the UDC, imposes an inflexible electoral code and blocks reforms that could level the playing field for all political actors.
Press Statement.Furthermore, the party highlights what it sees as a dangerous erosion of peace and legitimacy, pointing to a political environment where the rule of law is being replaced by “illegality as the norm.” The UDC warns that such conditions pave the way for social unrest and political demonstrations phenomena it says are “normal expressions in democracies,” not threats.
Call for International Oversight
In a direct appeal to the international community, the UDC calls on the United Nations, regional bodies, the European Union, and Cameroon’s international partners to take a stronger interest in the electoral process. It criticizes previous international support for Cameroon’s elections as having bolstered the regime rather than the people, inadvertently promoting corruption and weakening public institutions.
“There is still time,” the statement reads, “to deploy diplomatic tools advice, intervention in pursuit of lasting peace. The era of peace for business and egoistic interests is over.”
A Plea for Democratic Integrity
With just two months left before election day, the UDC urges that the people of Cameroon be allowed to exercise their “first right and first duty” the right to vote freely and ensure that their choice is respected.
As the country inches closer to what could be a defining moment in its democratic evolution, the party’s message is clear: the will of the people must prevail, and international silence is no longer an option.
Comments
Post a Comment