A prominent political ally of Cameroon’s long-time President Paul Biya has resigned from his ministerial post to launch a presidential bid, potentially reshaping the political landscape ahead of the country’s October elections.
Issa Tchiroma Bakary, former government spokesperson and until recently the Minister of Employment, announced his resignation this week, citing growing national demand for political change. His departure marks a rare break from Biya’s inner circle and could signal deeper shifts within the ruling elite.
“In response to appeals from across the country, I feel compelled to act,” Tchiroma said in an interview broadcast on social media platforms YouTube and Facebook.
President Biya, 92, has not confirmed whether he will seek another term, but speculation is mounting over succession within the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), which has ruled for over four decades. Biya is currently the world’s oldest serving head of state.
Tchiroma, who leads the Cameroon National Salvation Front – a party allied with the CPDM – criticized Biya’s leadership in an open letter, accusing his administration of stalling progress and weakening national institutions. He vowed to push for reforms, including a referendum on federalism, expanded youth employment opportunities, better education, and modernized agriculture.
Tchiroma’s candidacy is likely to be particularly influential in the northern regions of Cameroon, his political base, which has historically supported Biya. His defection could impact voter dynamics and embolden other northern leaders to consider presidential bids.
While Tchiroma faces significant challenges in a system dominated by entrenched power networks, analysts say his move may alter the country’s political balance. “He is now the most prominent northern opposition figure,” said Munjah Vitalis Fagha, a political scientist at the University of Buea, adding that other leaders such as Bello Bouba Maigari might follow his lead.
The government has yet to respond officially to Tchiroma’s resignation or his presidential ambitions.