A destabilized Cameroon would trigger severe consequences across the region. For instance landlocked countries like Chad and the Central African Republic depend on the port of Douala for critical imports. Gabon buys much of its agricultural produce from Cameroon, while thousands of students from neighboring countries study there, unable to afford universities elsewhere in Africa or Europe. At the borders, ongoing threats from Boko Haram and armed groups operating near Chad, CAR, and Sudan add volatility to an already fragile context.
In a region still reeling from instability in the Sahel, a collapse in Cameroon would send shockwaves echoing beyond those felt after Libya’s upheaval.
Between Hope and Disillusionment
Much like the rest of Africa, Cameroon’s youth hunger for change, democratic renewal, and social justice. Their demands are legitimate, but they collide with a tightly controlled political reality, dominated for over forty years by an aging regime. Should stability be preserved at all costs—even if that stifles hope? Or is it better to push for change, despite all the risks it brings?
Africa’s history warns against rushing. Many so-called “liberation” movements propelled by soldiers have simply turned into new authoritarian states, often harsher than those they replaced.
Today’s wave of revolt and anti-neocolonial rhetoric in Francophone Africa is nothing new. This fresh patriotism carries troubling baggage. And when critics raise the alarm, warning “all is not well,” they’re quickly dismissed as foreign puppets or Western sympathizers. Popular anger is always close to the surface.
From Antananarivo to the AES capitals—and throughout Central Africa—it’s almost impossible to hold a calm debate with younger citizens. They want change now, to enjoy their country’s wealth, urging soldiers to seize control, often with the backing of “new partners” who promise not to meddle or push their own pseudo-democratic ideals.
The Liberator Mirage
Previous generations fell for the same promise—that soldiers would bring renewal. In Central African Republic alone: Bokassa, Kolingba, Bozizé, Séléka—all carried the banner of “liberation.” Committees for “national salvation,” transitional governments, or “people’s movements”—the region has seen plenty. Yet military renewal almost never leads to real political transformation.
The years pass. Our nations stay dependent on foreign aid. The same names shuffle through government since independence, while ordinary citizens remain poor and hungry.
Military leaders who seize power often believe they’re chosen for a higher purpose. They suppress dissent, silence critics, and always find lawyers and intellectuals eager to legitimize their rule. Opposition parties and civil society often join in, convinced they’re serving the public. But soon, power becomes insular, the “visionary leader” is idolized, and dissenting voices are lost. In the end, another coup ousts the ruling clique—a cycle that repeats endlessly.
A Decisive Moment for Central Africa
At a crossroads, Cameroon—and the region—faces a choice: risk chaos for the hope of something better, or forge a new, peaceful path rooted in diversity and unity.
This choice isn’t just Cameroon’s; it’s Central Africa’s. Still fragile, still reliant on others, and still shaped by disappointments and failed revolutions.
It’s an historic test. Real freedom isn’t born from force or abrupt transition. It takes patience, clear thinking, and a willingness to rebuild trust between governments and citizens.
Cameroon’s Path to Change
Cameroon has strengths: an educated population, a diverse economy, and more institutional experience than many neighbors. Now is not the time for resignation or violence. Instead, what’s needed is responsible democratic transition, led by civil society, intellectuals, political forces, and the country’s youth.
Cameroon’s destiny will impact all of Central Africa. May political leaders and young Cameroonians choose prudence, peace, and gradual progress—rejecting the path of chaos.
