Biya's coup proofing in Cameroon may have limits

Significance

A 2008 constitutional amendment removing term limits means that Biya can run again in the 2025 presidential election, and despite being 90 years old, he has designated no heir apparent. Reported discontent in the military, a factionalised governing class, separatist and jihadist insurgencies and an enhanced regional coup risk, besides Biya’s advanced age, have raised concerns about Cameroon’s stability.

Impacts

• The repression of opposition voices may intensify in the run-up to the 2025 elections.
• Fiscal discipline will be loosened as the election approaches.
• Biya will likely fail to convince the United States to lift human rights-related trade restrictions.