By Boris Esono Nwenfor
BUEA, Cameroon – The United States Embassy in Yaoundé has officially welcomed the announcement of Cameroon’s presidential elections on October 12, 2025, calling for a democratic, peaceful, and inclusive electoral process.
In a statement issued on July 12, the Embassy reaffirmed the United States’ longstanding partnership with Cameroon, emphasising that free, fair, and credible elections are critical not just for national governance but also for the broader stability of the Central African region.
“As a longstanding partner and friend of Cameroon, the United States underscores the importance of free, fair, peaceful, and inclusive elections as a cornerstone of democratic governance and stability in Cameroon and Central Africa,” the Embassy said.
The U.S. Embassy also commended Cameroonian institutions, civil society, political parties, and all stakeholders for their ongoing efforts in preparing for the election. The Embassy encouraged continued commitment to a process that allows all citizens to participate freely and vote their consciences without intimidation or fear of repercussions.
“We urge everyone concerned to engage in the electoral process in a manner that promotes peace, respects the rule of law, and upholds democratic norms and the rights of all citizens to participate freely and to vote their consciences without fear of repercussions,” the press release added.
The statement comes amid rising political activity in the country, following President Paul Biya’s confirmation of his candidacy for re-election at the age of 93, sparking renewed national and international interest in the credibility of the electoral process.
The U.S. stressed that public trust in democratic institutions must be upheld not only on Election Day but throughout the entire electoral period. This includes safeguarding fundamental freedoms of expression, assembly, and association as enshrined in the Cameroonian Constitution and electoral code.
Of particular concern to Washington is the space available for journalists, civil society groups, religious institutions, and political parties, who must be free to operate without harassment or undue restrictions.
“It is critical that the Cameroonian people have full confidence in their democratic institutions—not only on Election Day, but throughout the entire electoral period. This includes protecting the fundamental freedoms of expression, assembly, and association as guaranteed in the Cameroonian constitution, electoral code, and other relevant statutes,” the Embassy added.
“Journalists, political parties, civil society organisations, and religious institutions must be allowed to operate without harassment or undue restrictions. We stand with the Cameroonian people as they take this important step along their country’s democratic journey.”
