The launch of Cameroon's fourth General Population and Housing Census (RGPH) in 2026 is at the heart of a controversy. Prof. Jean Bahebeck, a political and medical figure, has publicly accused the government of wanting to manipulate the data from this census for electoral purposes.
The accusation was made during the "Club d'Élites" program on Vision 4, where Bahebeck expressed his conviction that the government is seeking to "fabricate the figures" in view of the upcoming legislative and municipal elections. According to him, the objective would be to modify the figures of the regions that are unfavorable to the ruling party, thus creating a basis for rigging the elections.
These allegations come as the Cameroonian government has announced a budget of more than 13 billion FCFA for the RGPH 2026, a national operation scheduled from April 24 to May 29, 2026. The census is officially presented as an essential tool for development planning, particularly when coupled with the census of agriculture and livestock. The authorities claim that the data collected will help guide public policies in key sectors such as education, health, infrastructure and employment.
However, Bahebeck argues that the real issues lie elsewhere. He fears that the results of the RGPH will be used to redraw electoral districts in a way that would favor the ruling party's continued hold on power.
It is important to note that the RGPH has been awaited for more than a decade in Cameroon. With the last census dating back to 2005, current demographic data is considered obsolete, making it difficult to accurately assess infrastructure needs and development planning. The coupling of this census with those of agriculture and livestock is a first, aimed at assessing the agropastoral potential of each region.
Bahebeck's accusations raise questions about the transparency and integrity of the electoral process in Cameroon. They come in a context where trust in institutions is sometimes tested. The National Communication Council (CNC) had already reminded the media of their responsibility for the remarks made by their guests, following an incident involving Prof. Bahebeck on Vision 4 in September 2023.
The RGPH 2026, beyond its statistical vocation, is therefore at the center of a political battle where democratic stakes are considerable. The census operation will take place from April 24 to May 29, 2026.
