Cameroon urges foreign allies to secure its embassies ahead of October 12 election

As the countdown to the most anticipated presidential election in Cameroon narrows down, Cameroon, through its Minister of External Relations, Lejeune Mbella Mbella, on Thursday, July 31, 2025, in Yaounde, reminded foreign diplomats of their international obligations to protect diplomatic premises.

According to Mbella Mbella, Cameroon is committed to international conventions governing relations with its partners, it expects the strict application of protection measures for diplomatic and consular personnel and buildings. 

He added, "I know I can count on you in this regard." The government is concerned that the presidential election could serve as a pretext for Cameroonians abroad to protest at their embassies. 

In the past, Cameroonians opposed to the government vandalized the embassy in Paris, spray-painted the one in Germany, assaulted the Cameroonian ambassador in Belgium, and attacked a ministerial delegation in Brussels. 

These incidents have angered officials in Yaoundé, who often respond by summoning the ambassadors of the countries where the incidents occurred. 

Despite this history, Mbella Mbella thanked the ambassadors for the welcome and hospitality extended to Cameroonian nationals in their respective countries. 

He underscored the importance of a peaceful election for Cameroon, given its strategic position in the Gulf of Guinea. 

He called on partner countries and international bodies such as the United Nations, the African Union, the European Union, the OIC, the Francophonie, and the Commonwealth to support the country during the election. 

BY LUDOVIC AMARA

Contact KNews management on whtapp for news coverage, support, special write-ups and advertisement ( +237) 651252410 

Minister of External Relations, Lejeune Mbella Mbella

Cross section of foreign diplomats during the briefing