Rethinking Cameroonian Politics: A Call for a Higher Standard of Leadership

By Dr Peter Mbile

The Brazilian Football Analogy: A Higher Standard of Play

At the peak of its global dominance, Brazilian football stood out not merely for its victories, but for how it won—by leaning into its unique strengths: flair, creativity, talent, and a deep belief in its own identity. It was not a game of exploiting the opponent’s weaknesses, but a celebration of superiority born of value and confidence. Brazilian football became, as one might call it, "the penultimate brand"—an identity that inspired the world.

This philosophy offers a compelling lesson for Cameroonian politics, particularly in this tense and decisive electoral year. The approach that will restore hope in the Cameroonian project must not rely on tearing others down or outmaneuvering opponents through cheap political tactics. Instead, it must rise above the rot—offering a compelling, transformative, and distinctly Cameroonian vision anchored in integrity, capacity, and courage.

The Legacy of the Second Republic: Everyone Has Benefitted—and Suffered

Let us be honest: no Cameroonian, at home or abroad, can claim to be untouched by the redistributive governance system that defined the Second Republic. Whether through state appointments, contracts, scholarships, or elite privileges, the tentacles of this patronage system extended far and wide. It is this very system—entrenched in political loyalty, transactional allegiances, and expectations of rewards—that has brought Cameroon to its knees.

The political actors of today—be they from the camps of Biya, Kamto, Akere, or Bile—are, in one way or another, products of this same system. Their ideologies, strategies, and supporters often mirror each other more than they differ. Even the most vocal reformers have, at times, unconsciously reproduced the behaviors of the regime they claim to oppose.

The Cult of Appointments: Old Habits Die Hard

We observe with caution the efforts by some platform leaders to distance themselves from the old ways—to focus on principles rather than perks. This is commendable. However, their success will be measured not by what they say now, but by their ability to reject the culture of political payback once in power.

Unfortunately, signs of backsliding are already visible. The followers surrounding these leaders—those who shout the loudest on social media and at political rallies—too often appear more concerned with proximity to power than with principles of service. Their excitement is not about nation-building but about anticipated appointments, contracts, and favors once their candidate wins. This patronage-seeking mentality is precisely what has led Cameroon into a vicious cycle of mediocrity, incompetence, and corruption—despite our country's immense wealth in natural and human resources.

The Danger of Personality Cults

Equally troubling is the rise of personality cults around political figures. Leaders should inspire, yes—but not be worshipped. Hero worship, exaggerated flattery, and blind loyalty are dangerous in any political system. They lead not to transformation, but to stagnation. Many platform leaders may be quietly embarrassed by the sycophancy surrounding them, yet they seem unsure of how—or unwilling—to rein it in.

This bandwagon effect, where individuals rush to align with whichever leader seems most likely to succeed, often drags along the worst elements of the past. As Fidel Castro once warned, “Beware of how you come to power—the pedagogy and tactics you use to win power will determine how you govern.” If these movements come to power using the same clientelist and transactional logic of the Second Republic, they will only replicate its failures.

A Plea for Scrutiny, Not Sentiment

This is why it is imperative for the Cameroonian public to look beyond charisma, crowd size, or social media virality. We must scrutinize each platform and its leadership carefully—not just for what they promise, but for how they operate, who surrounds them, and whether they can rise above the baggage of the past. The real test is not the message but the method. Are these movements building a new political culture—or simply repackaging the old?

So far, only a few voices—such as the thoughtful communications of Barrister Akere Muna, the earnest media presence of Hon. Joshua Osih, the well-articulated interventions of Cabral Libii, or the embattled defiance of Maurice Kamto—stand out in tone and content. Yet even these remain surrounded by followers who echo all too faithfully the entitlement, opportunism, and sycophancy of the past.

Toward a Vision Beyond Partisan Politics

Cameroon does not need another partisan savior or recycled strongman. What it needs is a bold, unifying vision—one that transcends tribalism, cronyism, and narrow self-interest. A vision grounded in principle, not personality. A vision carried by someone brave enough and strong enough to lead with integrity, even if it means breaking ranks with their most ardent but misguided supporters.

The stakes are too high. Let us not settle for the illusion of change. Let us demand the real thing.

Peter Mbile is an Environmental Management Specialist and commentator on Society and Politics. He holds a PhD in Forest Policy and Economics He is based in Yaoundé, Cameroon