In a surprising yet widely discussed public statement, former Minister of Communication Issa Tchiroma Bakary has called for Professor Maurice Kamto, leader of the opposition party MRC (Cameroon Renaissance Movement), to be reinstated in his full civic and political rights, particularly his right to participate in the upcoming presidential elections.
This statement comes amid a tense political atmosphere in Cameroon, where concerns over electoral fairness, political inclusion, and democratic transparency continue to dominate public discourse. Maurice Kamto, a former government minister and respected legal scholar, has emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the current regime. Following the 2018 presidential elections, where he claimed victory and rejected the official results that declared President Paul Biya the winner, Kamto was arrested and later released — yet many believe he continues to face political exclusion.
Tchiroma, long seen as an ally of the ruling government, surprised many by calling for fairness and inclusion. He emphasized that maintaining Cameroon’s democratic integrity requires equal political opportunity for all major actors, including those in opposition. In his words:
“If we want credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections, then it is imperative that all major political leaders — including Professor Kamto — be treated with justice and fairness,” said Tchiroma.
His comments have sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum. Many see this as a sign of political maturity and a possible step toward national reconciliation, while others interpret it as a calculated move or a political repositioning strategy by Tchiroma.
The MRC party has yet to issue an official response, but several supporters and civil society actors have welcomed the gesture on social media, calling it a voice of reason in a politically divided landscape.
This development also reignites discussion around the independence of Cameroon’s electoral institutions, freedom of political expression, and the need for an inclusive national dialogue. As the country heads toward its next electoral cycle, the pressure to uphold democratic principles is mounting both domestically and internationally.
Ultimately, Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s call may represent a turning point in the conversation about democracy in Cameroon. Whether this appeal will influence decision-makers or change the current political dynamics remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the question of Maurice Kamto’s political rights is once again at the forefront of national debate — and how it is handled may shape the future of Cameroonian politics.
