Professor Maurice Kamto, the leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), has accused Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), the country’s electoral body, of fraudulently publishing the revised electoral list. According to reports, Kamto has raised concerns over the disappearance of approximately 120,000 voters from the list.
This situation has sparked a debate on the integrity of the electoral process in Cameroon. The accusations suggest a potential violation of the Electoral Code, which mandates the publication of provisional electoral lists by a specific deadline. Kamto’s demand for explanations from ELECAM reflects the urgency and gravity of the matter, as the credibility of the electoral list is crucial for fair and democratic elections.
The disappearance of such a significant number of voters raises questions about the transparency and accountability of the electoral management body. Kamto has criticized the justification provided by ELECAM for the missing names, which reportedly pertains to issues with biometric fingerprints. He argues that no divisional branch of ELECAM has certified these missing details, suggesting that the removal of voters could be arbitrary.
Furthermore, Kamto has called for an audit of the electoral file before the presidential election scheduled for 2025, highlighting concerns over manipulations aimed at keeping the electoral file as low as possible. This call for an audit underscores the need for a thorough examination of the electoral list to ensure its accuracy and to restore public confidence in the electoral system.
The allegations also involve accusations of foreign involvement, with Kamto alleging that the figures produced by ELECAM likely originated from a “black laboratory” operated in collaboration with German technical partners. Such claims, if proven true, could have far-reaching implications for the integrity of the electoral process and the trust of the Cameroonian people in their electoral system.
As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for all stakeholders, including ELECAM, political parties, civil society, and international observers, to engage in a constructive dialogue to address these concerns. Ensuring a transparent and fair electoral process is fundamental to the democratic principles that govern the nation.
The upcoming elections in Cameroon are a critical juncture for the country’s democracy. The resolution of these allegations and the establishment of a credible electoral list are essential steps towards conducting elections that reflect the will of the Cameroonian people. It is the collective responsibility of all involved to work towards a fair and just electoral process that upholds the democratic rights of every citizen.
Allegations of Electoral List Tampering: Professor Maurice Kamto Claims 120,000 Names Missing
