Cameroon’s opposition leader Joshua Osih has issued a strong call for unity among political parties to enforce the country’s electoral calendar without delay.

Speaking at a press conference on July 23, Osih emphasized that the electoral schedule is a matter of national importance that transcends government control. He urged all opposition factions to form a united front to ensure elections proceed as scheduled.

“Elections must happen on time. No further postponements. The electoral calendar is not the government’s property—it belongs to the Cameroonian people,” Osih declared. So far, his appeal has not received a public response from other opposition figures.

This demand comes months after municipal and legislative elections were postponed. The government cited financial, logistical, and security challenges as reasons for the delay. A parliamentary bill was passed, and President Paul Biya’s decree formalizing the extension took effect in June 2026, pushing the mandate timeline to February 2027.

Government cites challenges while opposition demands accountability

The government has defended the postponements, citing financial constraints, logistical hurdles, and security concerns as key factors in rescheduling the elections. However, Osih’s call for a unified opposition signals growing pressure on authorities to prioritize constitutional compliance over administrative delays.

The government has defended its decision by pointing to financial, logistical, and security constraints as well as the need to properly organize the electoral process.