In a surprising twist ahead of Cameroon’s October 13 presidential election, the country’s main opposition leader Maurice Kamto has been excluded from the final list of approved candidates.

Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), was notably absent from the list of 13 candidates released by the national electoral commission. This is despite 83 individuals expressing interest in contesting.

Kamto, who finished second in the 2018 presidential elections, was widely expected to be a key challenger again. His exclusion has raised eyebrows and sparked questions about the transparency and inclusivity of the electoral process.

Meanwhile, 92-year-old incumbent President Paul Biya is among those approved to run. Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, is seeking an unprecedented ninth term in office, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.

Political analysts warn that Kamto’s absence from the ballot could deepen political tensions and erode public trust in the election. With the opposition divided and major contenders sidelined, the stage appears increasingly tilted in favor of Biya’s continued reign.