Bello Bouba Maigari in Bamenda pledges dialogue with Amba fighters

Campaign in the Grassfields

Bello Bouba was welcomed at the entrance to Bamenda by a convoy of motorbike riders who escorted his team through the city. He later addressed supporters, reaffirming his intention to pursue talks with “Amba Boys” to seek a lasting settlement. The rally drew significant crowds in a region that remains deeply affected by the conflict.

Position on coalitions

Observers note that Bello Bouba has consistently rejected opposition coalition proposals unless he is chosen as the sole candidate. As a former prime minister and close ally of Cameroon’s first president Ahmadou Ahidjo, he argues that his political background makes him best placed to succeed Paul Biya. He has reportedly resisted overtures from other candidates, including Issa Tchiroma Bakary.

Next steps

The campaign trail continues in the run-up to the October presidential election, with Bello Bouba scheduled to hold a major pre-campaign rally in Bafoussam on September 7. The official campaign period opens in the coming days, as the UNDP candidate seeks to position himself as a credible alternative in the national race.

Follow Cameroon Concord’s Politics section for updates on the 2025 presidential race.