Constitutional Council: Kamto, Balla lambast Biya’s loyalist appointee

By Stephen Tadaha

The appointment of Monique Ouli Ndongo, a member of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), to the Constitutional Council raised concerns about the council’s neutrality and independence. A day after the appointment by the outgoing president, critics have argued that this move could influence the outcome of the upcoming presidential elections, favoring the ruling party.

According to Human Rights Advocate, Agbor Mballa in a Press Statement on Wednesday, April 9, says the Constitutional Council plays a vital role in upholding Cameroon’s Constitution, guaranteeing citizens’ rights, and ensuring the integrity of electoral processes. Appointing a politically affiliated individual raises questions about the council’s neutrality. He calls for urgent institutional reforms to safeguard the council’s independence and ensure transparent, merit-based appointment processes.

Maurice Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), in his outing the same day, condemned the appointment as a “further act of defiance against democracy,” potentially leading to another electoral hold-up.

Both Personalities have urged Cameroonians to remain vigilant with Kamto urging them to prepare for an appropriate response to the Government’s actions, emphasizing that the 2025 presidential election must not be a repeat of that of 2018.

Monique Ouli Ndongo who was appointed by Paul Biya on Tuesday April 8, is a former CPDM senator and central committee member.