Bello Bouba Maigari, a Cameroonian political figure, has experienced a career full of twists and turns, transitioning from an ally of Paul Biya to a political challenger. His journey illustrates the complexities of power relations in Cameroon. As questions linger about Bello Bouba's health, it's crucial to revisit his background and his relationship with the Cameroonian head of state.
Hailing from the northern region, Bello Bouba quickly rose through the ranks after graduating from Enam. Paul Biya, then Secretary-General of the Presidency of the Republic (SGPR), appointed him as an attaché to the Presidency. Keen to strengthen his relations in the north of the country, Biya then recommended Bello Bouba to Ahmadou Ahidjo, then president, for the position of Secretary-General of the Ministry of the Armed Forces. This strategic position allowed Biya to keep an eye on Sadou Daoudou, a close associate of Ahidjo, considered a potential rival. Bello Bouba's rise continued with his appointment as Deputy Secretary-General of the Presidency, alongside Samuel Eboua.
In 1982, Paul Biya acceded to the presidency and appointed Bello Bouba as Prime Minister. However, the relationship between the two men became complex in the context of the rivalry between Biya and Ahidjo. Bello Bouba initially displayed his loyalty to Ahidjo, before being convinced by Biya of a plot orchestrated by the former president. This was followed by a period of exile for Bello Bouba in Nigeria from 1983, keeping him away from the political tensions and accusations of attempted coup leveled against Ahidjo.
After his return to Cameroon in 1990, Bello Bouba was supported by Hamadou Mustapha and Issa Tchiroma Bakary to take over the leadership of the UNDP (National Union for Democracy and Progress). He then began a long ministerial career, often kept in government by Paul Biya, even when his political weight diminished. This apparent loyalty came to an end in 2025, when Bello Bouba resigned from his post as Minister of Tourism and Leisure to run in the presidential election.
Bello Bouba Maigari, 78, has officially declared his candidacy for the 2025 presidential election, breaking a long-standing alliance with Paul Biya's RDPC. This decision marks a turning point in his political career, having held various ministerial positions for over 20 years. His experience both in government and in the National Assembly, he says, strengthens his vision for Cameroon.
