Issa Tchiroma Bakary, Cameroon’s Minister of Employment and Vocational Training, has formally resigned from his cabinet position to declare his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming October 2025 elections. His announcement marks one of the most high-profile moves so far in what is expected to be a pivotal and possibly transitional election season.
In a public letter addressed to the nation and circulated widely on social media platforms, Bakary stated: “I am a candidate for the presidency of the Republic because I dream of a Cameroon that asserts itself strongly on the international stage.” His statement laid out an ambitious vision for the country’s future, hinting at a platform centered on national pride, global engagement, and generational change.
A seasoned political figure and former government spokesperson, Bakary hails from northern Cameroon and enjoys strong influence across the Adamawa, North, and Far North regions. His candidacy is likely to mobilize significant support from these electorally strategic provinces, which together account for more than 2 million registered voters.
Bakary’s resignation comes at a time of growing anticipation and uncertainty regarding the intentions of President Paul Biya, who has held power since 1982. At 92 years old, Biya has yet to announce whether he will seek another term. His continued silence has opened the door for long-serving allies and political heavyweights to position themselves as potential successors or challengers.
Bakary is the first senior government official to resign from his post in order to contest the presidency, signaling what some analysts view as the beginning of a broader shift within Cameroon’s political establishment. His decision to step down—rather than remain in office while campaigning—may also reflect a bid to set himself apart as a candidate committed to political integrity and accountability.
The October election is widely seen as a potential inflection point in Cameroon’s post-independence political history. With more than 8 million registered voters and a population of approximately 30 million, the country is facing increasing pressure—both domestically and internationally—for a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process.
Bakary’s candidacy may be just the beginning of a wave of political declarations in the coming weeks, especially as members of Biya’s inner circle weigh their options and the broader public demands change after more than four decades under the same leadership.
