Camer360

Yaoundé, September 3, 2025 — The political silence of Professor Maurice Kamto, one of Cameroon’s most prominent opposition figures, has become the subject of growing speculation after the Constitutional Council barred him from contesting the upcoming presidential election on August 5.

Kamto, who once led the Movement for the Renaissance of Cameroon (MRC) and later joined the African Movement for a New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM), was prevented from running despite his repeated attempts to challenge the Biya regime. The council’s ruling has left opposition supporters frustrated and sparked nostalgia for his combative political style.

Observers note that Kamto’s silence stands in sharp contrast to his past activism, when he called for mass demonstrations after claiming victory in the 2018 election. This time, he has refrained from public statements, leaving analysts puzzled.

In the days following the decision, riot police were deployed at key intersections in Yaoundé, a move widely interpreted as a preventive measure against possible protests from his supporters. Yet Kamto himself has remained silent, following developments like an ordinary citizen.

Rumors persist that Kamto may back another opposition candidate. Names circulating include Bello Bouba Maigari of the National Union for Democracy and Progress (NUDP) and Issa Tchiroma Bakary of the Cameroon National Salvation Front (FSNC). However, reported talks on power-sharing arrangements have stalled, with disputes over control of key ministries such as Defense, Finance, Justice, and National Security.

Supporters also recall that Akere Muna withdrew his candidacy in 2018 to endorse Kamto, fueling speculation that Kamto might now return the favor. But others argue that Cameroon’s geopolitical dynamics, especially the influence of northern regions, could push Kamto toward an alliance with Bello Bouba or Issa Tchiroma.

For now, his silence is viewed as both strategic and unsettling. Analysts suggest the Biya government may have won a battle by excluding Kamto, but not the wider war over Cameroon’s political future. With elections set for October 12, the question remains: what role will Maurice Kamto ultimately play?