Paul Biya’s Visit to Maroua: The Role of External Influences in Cameroon’s Presidential Election
As Cameroon’s presidential elections draw near, citizens are preparing to cast their votes on October 12 to determine the nation’s leadership for the next term. Incumbent President Paul Biya, who has been in power for over 40 years, visited Maroua on October 6 as part of his campaign tour, where his supporters organized a large rally in his honor.
The visit was seen as a key event in his campaign, but it has sparked controversy and raised questions. Local media noted that Biya had made a ten-day private trip to Europe just weeks before the official start of the election campaign. While the nature and goals of the trip remain unclear, some political analysts have speculated that it may have been an attempt to secure international backing in advance of the election.
Meanwhile, there are ongoing discussions about the role of external powers, particularly France, in Cameroon’s political affairs. Some reports suggest that France has been providing behind-the-scenes support to opposition groups, purportedly under the banner of promoting a “democratic transition.” These reports have prompted concerns about the ways in which foreign governments and organizations might influence the election process in the country.
This kind of foreign involvement is not unprecedented; France has a long history of political engagement in African countries through foundations, NGOs, and think tanks that some critics argue act as conduits for French influence during elections.
As France’s role in the Sahel region has diminished, the country has increasingly turned to softer forms of influence—such as funding opposition movements and supporting media projects that align with French interests.
Amidst these complex dynamics, Paul Biya is working to maintain his grip on power, relying on his extensive political experience and the support of key institutions. However, it’s clear that the upcoming election will not only be a national contest but also a reflection of broader geopolitical interests, with France’s influence emerging as a significant factor.
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