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PoliticsCameroon

Why Biya's victory damages Cameroon's electoral integrity

Mimi Mefo Newuh | George Okachi
December 12, 2025

Cameroon looks calm — but the disputed election has shaken citizen's faith in the electoral system. Tomaino Ndam Njoya, the only female presidential candidate, joins us Under the Baobab, explains why there were no winners in Cameroon's election, and reveals surprising ways Cameroon's political elite can try to rebuild trust with the electorate.

https://p.dw.com/p/554hq

Cameroon appears to be calm but the disputed electionhas shaken citizen's faith in the electoral system. Protesters have been jailed, opposition voices silenced, and challenger Issa Tchiroma has fled into exile, while 92-year-old President Paul Biya begins another term. Tomaino Ndam Njoya, the only female presidential candidate to challenge Biya, joins us Under the Baobab and explains why there were no winners in Cameroon's election. She also reveals surprising ways Cameroon's political elite can try to rebuild trust with the electorate. 

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About the show

Under the Baobab hosts Mimi Mefo Newuh and George Okachi, standing in front of an illustration of a baobab tree seen in a dark blue silhouette against a pink/orange gradient sky

Under the Baobab

Under the Baobab is DW's weekly vodcast where Africa's biggest issues meet real talk, sharp minds and bold solutions. Hosts Mimi Mefo Newuh and George Okachi are joined by experts and everyday change-makers from Africa.

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