NOTHING IS ETERNAL; EVERYTHING HAS A BEGINNING AND AN END — TO BE BORN, TO LIVE, AND TO DIE.
THE EXISTENTIAL CONDITION FROM WHICH NONE CAN ESCAPE.
Dear compatriots, Ladies and Gentlemen,
One week before the crucial date of October 12, 2025, twelve officially declared candidates are vying for the future of our nation. Why twelve? (1 + 2 = 3 — a point to reflect on) And why the 12th? (1 + 2 = 3 — again, for reflection).
The emergence of a coalition uniting three of them (3 — to think about) offers a real and viable prospect for democratic alternation, sending a strong signal of hope and change to which we are all called to respond responsibly.
I wish to share with you the essence of my reflection: the change long desired by the Cameroonian people is within reach. This change cannot be claimed by any one party or political group; it is everyone’s business, transcending divisions and partisan interests. We all know very well that the old election tactics of handouts no longer convince us.
After forty-three years of unfulfilled promises and collective suffering, it is more than time to act for a better future.
Here is a careful analysis of reasons to support or not support each candidate:
President Paul Biya, 92 years old, in power for 43 years.
Why I support him: He has bequeathed a deep political and socio-economic framework — the Project for Community Liberalism (PLLC) — a real theoretical, cultural, and environmental foundation for a new society.
Why I’m doubtful: His failure to embed this project in our education system prevents the Cameroonian youth from embracing its values. Also, efforts to secure energy, food self-sufficiency, and reliable healthcare have not yielded success in over four decades.
Bello Bouba Maïgari
Why I support him: An experienced and loyal man, he embodies unity, rallying a broad coalition including other candidates, political figures, the UPC, and unions. His Cameroon Marshall Plan is an ambitious and concrete program aimed at multisector development: economy, education, health, infrastructure. He’s the pragmatic choice to break through the deadlock towards a united and prosperous Cameroon. His slogan Solidarity and Progress perfectly captures this inclusive vision beyond divisions.
Why I question: His long backstage role without clear opposition to regime mistakes raises doubts about his ability to drive radical change. Yet, it may also show his willingness to seek compromise to avoid harsh destabilization.
Caxton Ateki Seta
Why I would vote for him: Genuine commitment to social justice and equality, promising more inclusive policies.
Why I wouldn’t: His political inexperience weakens his capacity to handle Cameroon’s complex challenges. Joining Bello Bouba recently shows he opts for strength in numbers, not solo leadership.
Issa Tchiroma Bakary
Why I would vote for him: Seasoned politician, knows institutions and state functioning—an asset for a country in crisis.
Why I wouldn’t: Past government ties label him as part of the old system; sometimes unclear and lacking innovative ideas; opportunistic and ambiguous.
Joshua Osih
Why I would vote for him: Defender of democratic values, well-grounded in political realities.
Why I wouldn’t: Fails to unite his party and deal with internal splits; federalism stance poorly fits Cameroon’s history.
Patricia Hermine Tomaïno Ndam Njoya
Why I would vote for her: Advocate for women’s rights and responsible local governance, bringing fresh perspectives.
Why I wouldn’t: Low visibility and no strong track record in promoting sustainable development, especially food self-sufficiency in Foumban.
Here’s the translation of the second part you sent:
Jacques Bouhga-Hagbe
Why I would vote for him: He proposes bold reforms, notably the exit from the CFA franc, which reflects a sovereign vision for Cameroon.
Why I wouldn’t vote for him: This is his first candidacy; he lacks the experience and deep understanding of the Cameroonian political system to convince effectively.
Serge Espoir Matomba
Why I would vote for him: He embodies youthful progressivism and passionately defends youth and public health.
Why I wouldn’t vote for him: He still lacks notoriety and seems closed to learning, with a fixed policy and an unclear societal project.
Cabral Libii
Why I would vote for him: He represents a young, dynamic, and reformist voice capable of bringing fresh energy.
Why I wouldn’t vote for him: His party remains very weak on the ground, and his commitment to federalism is poorly suited to Cameroon’s historical and social context.
Samuel Iyodi Hiram
Why I would vote for him: His economic skills and attachment to local interests give him technical credibility.
Why I wouldn’t vote for him: But his lack of political visibility and possible alignment with the government limit his electoral impact.
Pierre Kwemo
Why I would vote for him: A grassroots activist, he is committed to fighting corruption, a vital struggle for Cameroon.
Why I wouldn’t vote for him: Still an emerging candidate, he will need to convince major electors and might be more effective within a transitional government.
Me Akere Muna TAKENG
Why I would vote for him: His integrity and stature as an international lawyer provide essential credibility and legal notoriety.
Why I wouldn’t vote for him: His long struggle can be divisive, but he has chosen to lend his weight to the winning coalition, favoring peaceful change.
After these analyses, it is yours to judge their relevance. It was my duty to enlighten the Cameroonian Nation in the choice to be made next week so that our people may regain serenity and self-confidence.
Together, let us vote for the Candidate, President Bello Bouba MAÏGARI — a reinvented, prosperous, UNITED and INDIVISIBLE Cameroon! May God bless and protect us all!
Fraternally yours,
Dr. NDEMMANU Antoine De Padoue
Contact: (+237) 690 922 056 / 670 655 614.
