CNA Political Affairs Editor, Hans Ngala looks at five major stories that are likely going to be recurring in the news in 2025.
- Cameroon Presidential Elections
While it is not yet clear whether incumbent President Paul Biya will run for office again, analysts believe he hinted at an eighth term during his New Year address to the nation on December 31st. Cameroonians will head to the polls in October, making 2025 a crucial year for the country as Biya has been in power for 42 years (and counting). His extended tenure, along with his age (he is 92), has led to widespread speculation about the succession process and the future of Cameroon’s political landscape, the cohesion (or lack thereof) among the opposition parties and related issues. The presidential race promises to be a highly contested one, with opposition parties pushing for reforms, but Biya’s legacy looms large over the political environment. Regardless of whether he seeks re-election or hands the baton to a successor, the elections will be one of this year’s most significant events.
- Spiraling Anglophone Conflict
The Anglophone Conflict, primarily affecting the North West and South West regions, will remain a dominant story in 2025. In his New Year address, Biya reaffirmed his stance of refusing to negotiate any further terms with the separatist “Ambazonia” fighters. The conflict, which began in 2017, has left thousands dead and millions displaced. Security in the Anglophone regions, particularly in remote areas, remains precarious, as fighters continue to exercise control over smaller villages. The government has made intermittent efforts to address the insecurity, but with limited success. With the presidential election approaching, it is likely that there will be increased calls for a resolution to the conflict, although the political will to bring about lasting peace remains uncertain. Despite this, the international community will continue to pressure Cameroon to find a way forward.
- Trump’s Inauguration
In a surprising turn of events, Donald Trump made a spectacular return to the White House after winning November’s elections. Trump’s second inauguration as the 46th President of the United States is scheduled for January 20, 2025. His victory has already sparked widespread reactions, both in the US and internationally. Trump’s return promises a tumultuous presidency with his signature controversial remarks and policy proposals. Among the most headline-grabbing ideas he has floated so far are plans to buy Greenland, rename the Panama Canal, and even make Canada the ‘51st state of the US’. The international community will be watching closely to see how Trump approaches foreign relations, particularly with nations like China, Russia, and those in Africa – which are never a priority in Trump’s foreign policy, given his America-first approach to governance. Nevertheless, his policies could have far-reaching effects and his second term is bound to stir debates across the globe, including in Cameroon.
- New Leadership in CBC, PCC
In late 2024, two of the largest Protestant denominations in Anglophone Cameroon, the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) and the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC), held elections to choose new leadership. The CBC’s Rev. Dr. Nditemeh Charlemagne announced he would not seek re-election, stepping down after serving one mandate. In his place, Rev. Dr. Teke John was elected as the new Executive President of the CBC. Teke is scheduled to be installed as CBC’s new leader on January 12 at the Baptist Center in Bamenda.
Meanwhile, in the PCC, Rt. Rev. Fonki Samuel, who had faced internal dissatisfaction with his leadership, stepped down and issued a public apology for any shortcomings. Rev. Miki Hans was voted in as the new PCC Moderator, with his installation planned for later this year at the PCC’s headquarters in Buea. The leadership changes in both churches are significant, as they will influence the religious and social climate in Anglophone Cameroon, especially as both denominations hold substantial sway in the region’s social, religious and political discourse.
- Cameroon Economy
As the 2025 elections approach, economic issues will take center stage in the national conversation. Cameroonians are already expressing concerns about the rising cost of living, with prices of essential goods and commodities steadily climbing. The government has hinted at potential price hikes for certain items, such as fuel, which is already a major factor driving inflation. While officials have reassured the public that there will be no increase in other sectors, many fear the worst. Analysts predict that inflation will continue to rise in 2025 due to a combination of global factors, including fluctuating oil prices, regional instability, and ongoing internal challenges. In addition to inflation, unemployment remains high, especially among the youth, which could lead to further social unrest.
The government’s efforts to stimulate the economy through investment in infrastructure, such as the Kribi deep-sea port and the construction of new highways, have had mixed results. While these projects offer some potential for economic growth, they have not yet translated into significant job creation or improved livelihoods for the average Cameroonian. The ongoing Anglophone conflict also hampers economic progress, as insecurity in the North West and South West regions continues to disrupt trade and production.
Foreign investments in Cameroon, particularly from China and France, could provide some relief, but there are concerns that these investments might not address the root causes of economic inequality. Corruption also remains a persistent problem, further stalling the country’s economic development. With the presidential elections drawing nearer, the state of the economy will be a key issue for voters, and it is expected that the government will seek to emphasize its economic achievements, despite the challenges facing many citizens.
In conclusion, 2025 will be a year of critical events in Cameroon, from the presidential elections and the ongoing Anglophone crisis to significant changes in the leadership of religious denominations. The economic outlook, however, will be a source of ongoing concern for many, especially as the cost of living continues to rise.
