• Paul Biya, at 92, seeks to extend his 43-year presidency in Cameroon.
• He faces nine challengers, including former allies, amid political unrest.
• Analysts predict his re-election despite calls for change from opposition candidates.
• Over 8 million voters registered, with many hoping for socio-economic improvements.
• Vote counting is underway, with results expected by October 26.

On October 12, 2025, Cameroonians participated in a presidential election where incumbent President Paul Biya, who has governed since 1982, aims to secure an eighth term. Despite currently being 92 years old, Biya's anticipated victory is largely attributed to his significant control over state resources and the divided opposition against him, which includes nine candidates like Issa Tchiroma Bakary and Bello Bouba Maigari, both former government officials, according to Reuters, Al Jazeera, and South China Morning Post.

Despite a tight electoral process that favors him, Biya's leadership has faced mounting criticism over economic issues and long-standing poverty affecting over 43% of the population, as reported by sources. Voter sentiment reflects a demand for change, with citizens like Hassane Djbril expressing dissatisfaction and a desire for progress, which they attribute to decades of stagnation under Biya’s rule. Analysts predict, however, that despite the energy of the opposition and public discontent, the electoral machinery remains heavily tilted in favor of Biya, according to Le Monde and Africanews.

As voting took place, reports indicated various incidents, particularly in the English-speaking regions where opposition calls for a boycott led to clashes in some areas. While official sources described the voting process as hitch-free across most regions, tensions remained high with allegations of suppression aimed at preventing opposition visibility. Vote counting has commenced, and the final results are scheduled to be unveiled within 15 days, highlighting the ongoing political dynamics in Cameroon, according to BBC and Africanews.