Cameroon High Court: No Elections Without Paul Biya's Return

• Christian Ntimbane Bomo says municipal and legislative elections in Cameroon cannot be held as planned in February 2027 due to financial constraints and President Paul Biya's prolonged absence.
• The 2026 budget does not allow for financing an election in early 2027, with only 120 billion CFA francs invested so far this year out of a budget of over 2 trillion.
• President Biya's power to prorogue the mandate of lawmakers and municipal counselors is relevant in this context.

no election can be programmed in Cameroon until the institution of the presidency is stabilized, either with President Biya returning to power or another regime taking over

Christian Ntimbane Bomo, president of the Héritage party, has stated that municipal and legislative elections in Cameroon cannot be held as planned in February 2027. According to him, the country's financial constraints and President Paul Biya's prolonged absence are major obstacles to organizing the elections. In a Facebook post, Ntimbane Bomo explained that no election can be programmed in Cameroon until the institution of the presidency is stabilized, either with President Biya returning to power or another regime taking over. He also pointed out that the 2026 budget does not allow for financing an election in early 2027, citing a lack of investment and weak revenue collection.

The Cameroonian government's financial constraints are a significant issue, with only 120 billion CFA francs invested so far this year out of a budget of over 2 trillion. This has led to concerns about the ability to finance upcoming elections. Additionally, President Biya's prolonged absence has raised questions about his ability to lead the country and make key decisions. The president's power to prorogue the mandate of lawmakers and municipal counselors is also relevant in this context.

The organization of municipal and legislative elections in 2027 is uncertain due to the current situation. If the elections are delayed or postponed, it could have significant implications for the country's democratic process and stability. Lawyers should note that the Cameroonian government's financial constraints and President Biya's prolonged absence may impact the organization of these elections.

Lawyers should note that the Cameroonian government's financial constraints and President Paul Biya's prolonged absence may impact the organization of municipal and legislative elections in 2027, potentially leading to a delay or postponement.

Source: Original reporting via Actu Cameroun