By Boris Esono Nwenfor
BUEA, Cameroon – The Social Democratic Front (SDF) has officially launched its political program for the 2025 presidential election, unveiling what it calls a “Rescue Plan for Cameroon”, a bold and people-centred blueprint that party leader Honourable Osih Joshua says will address the country’s pressing crises and lay the foundation for long-term stability and development.
The plan outlines four key timelines for reform: ending violence in the North West and South West within 100 days, restoring dignity and opportunity to the Grand North within one year, reforming institutions within three years, and transforming Cameroon’s economy and society within one mandate.
“Our program is not about promises, but about concrete actions that respond to the urgent needs of Cameroonians,” Osih said. “We are determined to rescue this country from decades of stagnation and build a new Republic where every citizen has a fair chance at dignity and opportunity.”
With less than two months to go before Cameroonians head to the polls on October 12, 2025, the SDF’s “Rescue Plan for Cameroon” signals one of the most comprehensive reform agendas yet announced in the campaign season, and sets the stage for a high-stakes contest between continuity and systemic change.
Call for National Conversation and Federalism
Central to the SDF’s vision is the proposal for a national conversation on Cameroon’s constitutional future, which Osih insists must culminate in a constitutional conference and referendum within three years. The outcome, he says, should be the adoption of a federal system that balances power and resources across municipalities, regions, and the central government.
“What matters is not the size of a municipality or region but who has the skills and the means to drive development around them,” Osih explained. “We propose a three-tier federal system, municipalities at the base, regions in the middle, and the national level at the top, where resources are allocated fairly through a transparent formula based on population, geography, and social needs.”
He stressed that this restructuring must be the result of a collective agreement, not unilateral decisions. “It will be up to the Cameroonian people to decide, not Osih Joshua. That is why a national conversation is indispensable, so we can agree on a new social contract.”
The Chairman of the SDF used the event to reaffirm his candidacy for the 2025 presidential election, dismissing persistent speculation about opposition coalitions and withdrawals. “I was chosen in early 2025 by an extraordinary congress of 2,800 SDF delegates to win the presidential election,” he declared. “I am not a candidate for discussions around a table. I am a candidate for the people’s vote, and I am in this race to the end.”
He noted that only an extraordinary congress of the SDF could withdraw his candidacy, emphasising the party’s democratic tradition. “The SDF is not built on backroom deals or signatures. Since May 26, 1990, we have stood for ideology and history, and I will respect the decisions of our delegates. But as of today, my candidacy is non-negotiable.”
43 years of Failure
The SDF chairman sharply criticised Cameroon’s ruling elite, citing what he called “43 years of failure” to provide basic services such as clean water, electricity, education, and health care.
“If Cameroonians want to vote again for a system that has kept our youth in unemployment and cannot even ensure clean streets, that will be their choice,” he said. “But they must not complain afterwards. Today, we are offering a way out, systemic change, not cosmetic adjustments.”
Osih also aimed narratives suggesting that opposition unity is the only path to victory, describing them as “distractions fueled by the corridors of the Palace of Unity.” “There are too many candidates aiming for the throne,” he remarked. “I am aiming for the Republic. That is the difference. We want systemic change, and Cameroonians must make an informed democratic choice.”
The SDF’s program is framed around urgency, promising rapid interventions in conflict zones and marginalised regions while building institutional and economic reforms over the longer term.
“We started this work two years ago,” Osih said. “We are ready to secure the vote, ready to govern, and determined to deliver change from day one. This election is about the Republic, not the throne.”
