Tensions escalated over the weekend in Cameroon’s economic capital as security forces clashed with supporters of opposition leader Maurice Kamto. The unrest erupted on Sunday when activists from Kamto’s Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) attempted to reach the party’s regional headquarters, only to find access blocked by police.
Authorities began imposing restrictions as early as Saturday, with sections of the city—particularly areas around the airport—closed off to motorcycle taxi operators. The measures were put in place amid speculation surrounding Kamto’s anticipated arrival in Douala, where he was scheduled to lead a party gathering.
The heightened security presence and restrictions sparked outrage among MRC supporters. “They say Professor Maurice Kamto is coming. Why does the CPDM need to make such an announcement? Is it really the role of the government or the military to promote Maurice Kamto?” said Kouati Robert, expressing frustration over what many see as political interference.
On Sunday, Kamto released a video message stating that he had been confined to his home and was being blocked by security forces from attending the planned meeting. His claim added fuel to growing concerns about the suppression of opposition activity in the lead-up to the national elections.
Cameroon is heading into a high-stakes presidential election scheduled for October. President Paul Biya, who has ruled the country since 1982 and whose party has held power since independence in 1960, is expected to run for an eighth term. Biya, now one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, remains a deeply polarizing figure.
Kamto, who officially received 14 percent of the vote in the contested 2018 presidential race, continues to be one of Biya’s most prominent challengers. His supporters argue that the 2018 election was riddled with irregularities, a claim that has fueled ongoing political unrest.
In recent months, the political climate in Cameroon has grown increasingly repressive. Reports of arbitrary detentions, harassment of opposition members, and bans on public demonstrations have raised alarm among civil society groups and international observers. Sunday’s events in Douala underscore the mounting tension and shrinking space for political dissent as the October election approaches.