The official decision has been made: the mandates of MPs and municipal councilors in Cameroon are extended until December 20, 2026. Initially scheduled to expire on March 31, 2026, these mandates are therefore extended by nearly nine months, without popular consultation or public justification. This announcement has sparked strong reactions from civil society and the opposition, who denounce a maneuver by the CPDM (Cameroon People's Democratic Movement) to maintain its grip on power.
The absence of elections in sight is particularly criticized. The 180 MPs of the National Assembly and the mayors of all the country's municipalities retain their seats without going through the polls, thus circumventing the normal electoral process. This situation comes in an already tense political context, marked by the post-election challenges of the 2025 presidential election.
From the opposition's point of view, the CPDM is accused of wanting to confiscate power. Political voices say that the ruling party has no intention of sharing power with other parties. In Yaoundé, no official press conference has been organized to explain the legal basis for this extension, leaving citizens in the dark. The silence of Elecam (Elections Cameroon) is also fueling questions.
This extension raises questions about the legitimacy of institutions and Cameroon's ability to organize credible and inclusive elections. The lack of prior consultation with the population is seen as a sign of contempt for the popular will. Recent events, such as the election of Théodore Datouo as head of the National Assembly, although representing a change after 34 years, are seen as internal adjustments to the system rather than a real democratic opening.
The extension of mandates comes in an African context where issues of governance and political succession are increasingly pressing. Several countries on the continent face similar challenges, with leaders seeking to extend their terms beyond constitutional limits. Cameroon, with this decision, is part of a trend that raises concerns about the future of democracy in Africa.
Cameroonian civil society, although cautious, is calling for greater independence and efficiency of the National Assembly. Figures such as Nkongho Felix Agbor emphasize the need for the institution to better reflect the voice of the people and to legislate in the interest of all Cameroonians. The expectations of citizens, especially young people, are clear: more transparency, accountability and inclusion.
In the meantime, the extension of the mandates of MPs and mayors remains a subject of controversy in Cameroon, fueling debates on governance and democracy in the country. This situation highlights the persistent tensions between the ruling power and the aspirations of the population for greater political participation.
