In a major political twist ahead of Cameroon’s 2025 presidential election, veteran politician Bello Bouba Maïgari has declared his candidacy, and opened the door to a broad opposition coalition. The former Prime Minister and UNDP party leader says he’s ready to unite with all forces of change to challenge the ruling CPDM.
Veteran politician, Bello Bouba Maïgari has officially declared his candidacy for the 2025 presidential election and in a potentially game-changing development, he has also called for a broad opposition coalition to challenge the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement, CPDM. The President of the National Union for Democracy and Progress, UNDP, made the statement during an exclusive interview, where he outlined his vision for a peaceful and democratic transition in the country.“The UNDP is open to all forces of change for a coalition,” Bello Bouba said, signaling a clear break from the party’s long-standing alliance with President Paul Biya’s CPDM. For decades, the UNDP had been considered one of the minors yet loyal allies within Biya’s governing framework. Bello Bouba himself has served in various government roles, including as Prime Minister and Minister of State.
His decision to re-enter the presidential race after over 30 years, and to position himself as an alternative to the system he once supported, has triggered renewed debate across Cameroon’s political spectrum.His candidacy was endorsed during the UNDP’s Central Committee meeting on June 28, where party delegates, youth, women’s wings, and local representatives unanimously encouraged him to contest the upcoming polls. While Bello Bouba has not yet resigned from his current government position, he hinted that such a step might be imminent to enable him to focus fully on his campaign.
This move is being interpreted by analysts as a strong message to the opposition: unite or remain divided and risk another defeat. In past elections, the failure of opposition parties to form a united front has been cited as a major factor in the CPDM’s continued dominance. Bello Bouba’s stature, deep political experience, and insider understanding of the government machinery could make him a credible rallying figure for such a coalition. The October 2025 presidential election is only the first in a series of crucial national ballots, including regional elections in December and legislative and municipal elections early next year.
The compressed timeline adds urgency to coalition talks among opposition figures like Maurice Kamto, MRC, Cabral Libii, PCRN, and other actors from the SDF, UDC, and civil society movements.Bello Bouba emphasized that his focus is on peace, national unity, and a credible democratic process. “The country’s interest must come first. For us, patriotism is a permanent duty,” he declared. He also called for a peaceful electoral process and civic responsibility, especially in regions experiencing security challenges.
While critics may question the sincerity of his break with the regime, supporters argue that his return to the opposition fold could reinvigorate efforts for political change. With the electoral clock ticking, the question now is whether other opposition leaders will respond positively to Bello Bouba Maïgari’s call — or allow longstanding divisions to once again keep them apart.
NDUP denies debunks Minister Bello Bouba’s resignation
In response to growing speculation on social media and various online platforms, the NUDP has firmly denied reports suggesting that its National President, Minister Bello Bouba Maïgari, has resigned from government or from the party leadership. In an official statement released by the party’s Communication Unit, the NUDP labeled the claims as “false, misleading, and unfounded,” urging the public and media to disregard the information circulating online.
The party reaffirmed that none of its top-ranking officials currently serving in government have stepped down. It also emphasized that any official updates regarding the party’s internal structure or leadership changes will be communicated through recognized and official channels. As the political atmosphere heats up in the lead-up to Cameroon’s upcoming presidential elections, the NUDP has called on the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and avoid amplifying unverified content.
