As Cameroon approaches its highly anticipated presidential election on October 12, one of the country’s most respected human rights defenders, Barrister Nkongho Felix Agbor Balla, has issued a powerful call for sweeping political and institutional reforms, including the creation of a transitional government and the adoption of a new, people-driven constitution.
In a statement released on Monday, October 6, 2025, the President of the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA) described the 2025 polls as a defining moment in Cameroon’s history a chance, he said, “to address our nation’s deep divisions and build a future founded on justice, equality, and unity.”
“We stand at a crossroads,” Agbor Balla declared. “The painful history of marginalization, the ongoing crisis in the North West and South West Regions, and the widespread demand for political change compel us to act.”
A Call for a Transitional Government
Central to Agbor Balla’s proposal is the formation of an inclusive transitional government with a three- to four-year mandate immediately after the election. This interim administration, he said, should be tasked with overseeing national reconciliation, implementing governance reforms, and preparing for a truly free and transparent post-transition election.
“The transitional government must reflect Cameroon’s diversity,” he emphasized, “bringing together political actors, civil society, and regional representatives.”
Advocacy for Federalism
The outspoken rights advocate also called for the establishment of a genuine federal system that recognizes and safeguards Cameroon’s cultural and regional diversity.
“Cameroon’s unity will be strengthened not weakened by, federalism,” he said. “Each federated state should have constitutional authority over its governance, resources, and cultural identity within a united Cameroon.”
Release of Political Prisoners
Addressing one of the country’s most sensitive issues, Agbor Balla urged the immediate release of all political prisoners, especially those detained in connection with the Anglophone crisis.
“Cameroon cannot move forward while thousands remain detained for political, security, or conscience-related reasons,” he said, calling for a mix of amnesty and clemency measures to promote peace and reconciliation.
A New Constitution and Electoral Reforms
The human rights lawyer further proposed that during the transitional period, a new constitution be drafted through a participatory process. The document, he said, must enshrine rotational presidency, independent electoral institutions, and clear federal powers free from political manipulation.
He also advocated strong guarantees for minority rights, including protections for linguistic and cultural diversity as well as equitable resource distribution.
Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation
Agbor Balla proposed the establishment of a Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission to confront historical injustices and heal the nation’s long-standing divisions. “Cameroon’s future must be built on truth, justice, and collective responsibility,” he insisted.
A Warning Against Undemocratic Transition
In closing, Agbor Balla cautioned that any undemocratic transition of power could deepen instability and further erode public trust in institutions.
“An undemocratic transition could open the floodgates of instability,” he warned, “paving the way for collective suffering evidenced by champagne for a few and poor healthcare, bad roads, unstable electricity, and poverty for the majority.”
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