The African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM) has officially announced its break with Issa Tchiroma Bakary, following the latter's publication of the funeral program of Georges Anicet Ekane. This decision, made public on May 6, 2026, marks an escalation of tensions within the Cameroonian opposition.
MANIDEM, the party founded by the late Anicet Ekane, considers that the dissemination of the funeral program by Issa Tchiroma Bakary constitutes a political break and a rapprochement with the ruling power. The party denounces an act that, according to it, betrays the values and objectives of MANIDEM, particularly in a context where the unity of the opposition is crucial.
In a statement, MANIDEM called on its activists to boycott the funeral ceremonies, considering that they have been used for political purposes. The party also underlines the absence of communication with Issa Tchiroma Bakary since the arrest and death of Anicet Ekane, interpreting this as a confirmation of the break.
Georges Anicet Ekane, a historical figure of the Cameroonian opposition, died on December 1, 2025, in controversial circumstances. His death in detention had aroused strong emotion and numerous reactions within the political class and civil society.
Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who had proclaimed himself the winner of the presidential election of October 2025, had benefited from the support of Anicet Ekane and his platform, the Union for Change. However, differences seem to have emerged, culminating in this break formalized by MANIDEM.
MANIDEM's decision highlights the persistent divisions within the Cameroonian opposition, in a political context marked by tensions and important issues in the run-up to the next presidential election in 2026. The boycott of the funeral by MANIDEM activists testifies to the depth of the rupture and the difficulties of the opposition in maintaining a united front.
