Cameroon’s opposition unites behind Joshua Osih’s call for strict adherence to electoral calendar

Opposition leader Joshua Osih has intensified calls for Cameroon’s government to respect the national electoral calendar without further delays. Speaking at a press conference on July 23, the Social Democratic Front (SDF) president emphasized that the electoral timeline belongs to the Cameroonian people, not the ruling government.

The opposition leader’s impassioned appeal comes after previous postponements of municipal and legislative elections. Osih urged all opposition groups, regardless of political affiliation, to unite in forming a common front to demand the immediate implementation of scheduled polls.

«Elections must proceed as scheduled. No further delays. The electoral calendar belongs to the people, not the government. I urge all opposition parties to form a united front on this critical demand», Osih declared. His rallying cry has yet to elicit a public response from other opposition figures.

The SDF president’s demand follows the government’s justification for previous election postponements, citing financial constraints, logistical challenges, and security concerns. The National Assembly approved the government’s bill, and President Paul Biya’s decree formalizing the new timeline took effect in June 2026, extending mandates until February 2027.

The government has defended the delays, citing financial constraints, logistical hurdles, and security concerns as justification for rescheduling the elections.