Yaoundé, Cameroon — 10 Sept 2025 — The build-up to Cameroon’s 2025 presidential election has taken another twist after the sub-prefect of Yaoundé V banned an opposition rally scheduled for September 13 at the Omnisports stadium. The meeting, meant to unveil a “unity candidate,” was initiated by Anicet Ekane. But despite the administrative order, sources say the politician insists the gathering will go ahead

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Administrative Roadblock

In a letter dated September 9, Sub-Prefect François Mabaya Essomba cited two reasons for denying authorization: lack of prior clearance from the stadium’s management authority (ONIES) and “serious risks of public disorder.” He concluded bluntly: “It is not possible to deliver the requested receipt.”

Divided Opposition

The controversy highlights deep fissures within the opposition. Ekane’s “Douala Group” favors Issa Tchiroma Bakary as consensus candidate, but Bello Bouba Maïgari of the UNDP refuses to step aside. Meanwhile, Jean Michel Nintcheu of the MRC issued a statement distancing his party and the APC from the rally, denouncing “uncoordinated maneuvers” that mislead public opinion.

Rival Platforms

Parallel to Ekane’s effort, another bloc — the “Platform” led by Hermine Patricia Tomaino Ndam Njoya of the UDC — is pushing its own formula for unity. Analysts view the September 13 rally as an attempted power play by the Douala Group to impose Tchiroma, despite the absence of broad consensus.

With the presidential vote weeks away, the opposition remains fractured and vulnerable. The Yaoundé ban illustrates not only the regime’s tight administrative grip but also the inability of rival factions to settle on a credible challenger to President Paul Biya and the ruling CPDM.