Cameroon’s Parliament: Same Faces, No Change – Niat and Cavaye Re-elected Yet Again

Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, 84, who has ruled the National Assembly since 1992, unsurprisingly retained his post with 125 votes out of 137, against exactly zero challengers. Because, in Cameroon’s version of democracy, why bother with competition? Meanwhile, Marcel Niat Njifenji, 90, still clinging to the Senate Presidency since its creation in 2013, collected 87 votes out of 90, proving that longevity—not performance—is the key to political survival.

Political Theater at Its Finest

The ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM/RDPC), the political juggernaut that has held power for more than four decades, continues to choreograph elections like a well-rehearsed play. The process is simple: convene parliament, let members show up to rubber-stamp the same leaders, and celebrate the “democratic” outcome.

There were no challengers to these posts, because, as always, the CPDM had already decided in a dark room long before the first vote was cast. Opposition lawmakers, those who still have the patience to play along with this farce, had no real say in the matter—except perhaps in deciding whether to waste ink in marking a ballot or simply submit a blank one.

A Parliament for the Archives

Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, known for his frequent medical trips abroad, and his ability to remain in office without actually showing up to work, continues to preside over a National Assembly that has passed little-to-no meaningful legislation in decades. His main role? Ensuring the legislature serves as an echo chamber for President Paul Biya, the 92-year-old head of state who, after 42 years in power, is gearing up for yet another presidential election this October.

Marcel Niat Njifenji, at 90 years old, is another marvel of political immortality. His leadership style, best described as "ceremonial at best," ensures that the Senate remains nothing more than a retirement home for aging CPDM loyalists.

The Opposition’s Silent Suffering

Opposition parties, as expected, expressed their dissatisfaction—in whispers, of course. Because speaking too loudly might attract the usual accusations of "destabilizing the state." But, really, what is there left to say? With CPDM firmly controlling both houses, the concept of political debate has been reduced to a symbolic act of endurance—sitting through long, boring sessions where nothing changes.

As the October 2025 presidential election approaches, Cameroon’s political landscape remains unchallenged, unshaken, and utterly resistant to change. If history is anything to go by, the next “election” will once again see the same figures re-elected, the same excuses made, and the same system firmly in place—because in Cameroon, power is not won. It is inherited, recycled, and preserved at all costs.