Barrister Felix Nkongho (Agbor Balla) Washington DC

Cameroon’s future depends not only on votes cast, but on voices raised, plans made, and coalitions built. The time to act is now.

As Cameroon approaches the October 12, 2025, elections, the stakes are high, not just for those on the ground, but for Cameroonians in the diaspora and across civil society. With persistent insecurity, political stagnation, and ongoing tensions in the Far North, South West, and North West regions, this moment demands coordinated action, long-term vision, and bold leadership.

The upcoming elections present an opportunity to strengthen democratic participation, even in difficult conditions. Cameroon’s challenges will not be resolved in one election cycle. That’s why the diaspora is urged to form think tanks focused on 7 to 10-year strategic plans for political and civic engagement. Mapping potential leaders and building networks now will lay the foundation for impactful change through the 2026 municipal and legislative elections, looking beyond 2025 and planning for Long-Term Impact.

Leverage International Influence

The Cameroonian diaspora, particularly in the United States, holds untapped potential to influence international policy. Engaging with American companies invested in Cameroon can help apply pressure on the U.S. administration to prioritize governance and human rights. Anglophone communities in Washington, D.C, as well as other US states, are also encouraged to re-strategize their advocacy, exploring pragmatic alternatives to dialogue and negotiations, which can gain international traction.

Holding Power Accountable

Finally, if the Cameroonian government continues to suppress civil society through unjust bans, legal action must be considered. Holding institutions accountable through legal and diplomatic channels is a critical part of strengthening Cameroon’s democratic governance.