Signs of a nation unraveling

Filmmaker Jean Pierre Bekolo warns that Cameroon is already experiencing the chaos of a nation without Paul Biya. In a recent op-ed, he describes how the country is sliding into permanent unrest, with power struggles playing out across media, social platforms, and behind-the-scenes influence networks. The factions now jockeying for position will soon move beyond rhetoric to direct confrontation.

The filmmaker emphasizes that no successor enjoys the same symbolic authority as Biya, even in his advanced age or absence. Every day brings fresh examples of officials who, despite holding top state positions, command neither trust nor respect from the public.

Public skepticism has intensified over the role of presidential families, close advisors, and business networks in managing state resources. These groups often appear to operate above the law, wielding influence that surpasses formal institutions. Each revelation—whether about disputed gold reserves or constitutional maneuvers—reinforces one conclusion: a Cameroon without Biya risks descending into chaos.

Institutions losing their grip

The credibility of key institutions is eroding rapidly. A constitutional council’s decision that many view as politically motivated has weakened public trust in the judiciary. Meanwhile, ministries struggle to address daily citizen concerns while their leaders retain privileges tied to office. Prolonged mandates for corporate leaders and delayed transitions at state-owned enterprises further highlight the system’s paralysis.

The recent constitutional reform creating a vice-presidential role—approved by lawmakers whose terms had already expired—raises questions about the integrity of governance. The proliferation of delegated decisions blurs the line between presidential authority and behind-the-scenes maneuvering, leaving citizens confused about who truly holds power.

A system dependent on one man

Bekolo argues that Biya’s symbolic authority has held the fractured system together. Without him, no individual or institution can unite the nation. The rivalries currently contained within elite circles will escalate into open conflict. Those assuming they can inherit power through informal arrangements will discover too late that the system they seek to control is a ticking time bomb.

The current trajectory points to escalating instability. Media and social media amplify dissent, while institutions—already paralyzed—will fail to mediate disputes. Internal dissent within these bodies will further destabilize the government.

Economic and political fallout

Public finances and funding mechanisms will suffer as succession battles intensify, triggering a broader crisis. Every decision will face scrutiny, every appointment will be questioned, and every transition will spark controversy. This is not chaos imposed by opposition forces or external actors—it stems from a system that cannot function without Biya.

The decision to grant a 93-year-old president a new seven-year term has only accelerated these trends. Within months, signs of disorder have become impossible to ignore.

The path forward: responsibility and transition

Bekolo urges those who have held power to acknowledge the moment’s gravity. Those who recognize that their continued presence no longer serves the nation must step aside—not under duress, but by historical responsibility. Their final service to Cameroon lies in facilitating a transition, not clinging to office.

He advocates for a limited-term transitional government tasked with restoring institutional credibility, rebuilding trust, and establishing fair electoral rules. This is the only peaceful path to avoid collapse. Any effort to prolong the current system through secret deals or shadow maneuvers risks deepening the crisis and will be judged harshly by history.

Ultimately, the choice is clear: embrace a responsible transition or face the chaos that comes from refusing to let go.