CPDM member takes legal action, amplifying calls for long-overdue party congress

Léon Theiller Onana, a municipal councillor of the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) Monatélé commune, located in the Centre region of Cameroon on Wednesday Wednesday March 26, 2024 mounted the bold step to request the Yaoundé Central Administrative Court of First Instance to appoint an ad hoc representative to convene a congress of the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM). 

This move is significant, as the party's last congress took place 14 years ago, despite statutes requiring a congress every five years.

Onana’s motivation stems from concerns that President Paul Biya's mandate must be renewed through an urgent congress before the official convening of the electoral roll. 

This is because Article 27, paragraph 3 of the CPDM statutes specifies that the party's national president, elected during a congress, is its natural candidate for the presidential election. 

Interestingly, Onana is not alone in this view, although others within the CPDM express similar concerns only off the record.

A party insider notes that while Biya is no longer the party president according to the rules, the party has always operated this way in practice.

This development comes as the CPDM prepares for the 2025 presidential election, with Biya likely to run for another term.

The party has been celebrating its 40th anniversary, with calls for Biya to launch his campaigns in Bamenda, the birthplace of the party.

It should be noted that Onana is known for his public stance on various issues, particularly regarding Cameroonian youth and the ruling party. 

He has been vocal about his support for President Paul Biya and has criticized senior party officials for betraying Biya's trust. 

BY BEATRICE MOKAM 

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CPDM top party officials in Centre Region 

Léon Theiller Onana municipal councillor of CPDM Monatélé communication