Yaounde: Polling stations have closed in Cameroon following a presidential election in which 92-year-old Paul Biya, the world's oldest serving head of state, is anticipated to secure victory and extend his 43-year tenure. Jean-Alain Andzongo, an official from the national electoral authority, stated that the voting process in the capital, Yaounde, was conducted smoothly. The Constitutional Council is expected to announce the final results by October 26.
According to France24.com, Biya, who has governed since 1982, has consistently won past elections with over 70% of the vote. Despite the ruling system's established means to secure favorable outcomes, political scientist Stephane Akoa notes that the recent campaign has been unexpectedly lively, suggesting potential surprises in the results. Biya maintained a low profile during the campaign but made a public appearance in Maroua, a significant voting region, which has historically supported him but now hosts several of his former allies as contenders.
The election features 11 candidates promising change from Biya's longstanding rule. Among them, Bakary, a former government official who defected to the opposition, emerges as a strong contender after prominent opponent Maurice Kamto was barred from the race. Kamto's exclusion has drawn criticism from rights groups, questioning the election's credibility. Despite these challenges, Biya remains only the second president since Cameroon's independence in 1960.
Cameroon's diversified economy contrasts with the reality that approximately 40% of its population lives below the poverty line, with unemployment rates at 35% in major cities. While young Cameroonians express a desire for change, their discontent has yet to manifest in mass protests seen in other nations. Akoa highlights a budding sense of change, but not one strong enough to incite significant public demonstrations.
The government has approved 55,000 observers to oversee the election process, including African Union representatives. However, independent internet platforms aiming to compile election results have faced government criticism for allegedly attempting to influence public opinion. With voter turnout notably low in previous elections, the impact of this year's election remains to be fully realized.
