Maurice Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) does not want to be distracted by the controversy surrounding his ineligibility to run for the October 2025 presidential elections.
He has moved a step further in seeking the funding necessary for him to win the election. In this connection, he launched a fundraising initiative to generate FCFA 6 billion for his 2025 presidential campaign. at a press conference in Yaounde, last Thursday, January 30.
Though the regime is seen as legal, given that the funds would be raised exclusively from Cameroonians both at home and in the diaspora, some regime supporters do not view it favorably. Descartes Akono Ze has issued a warning, asking the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, to ban this collection, which he describes as fictitious and illegal. This Information and Communication Technology engineer argues that the MRC, already linked to previous frauds, might be attempting to conceal funds of dubious origin.
Addressing journalists, Kamto stated that the initiative aims to ensure an independent campaign free from external influence.
“We want this campaign to be powered by the people, for the people,” he declared.
“Every franc contributed will be a step toward breaking the cycle of governance that has held Cameroon back.”
The former Minister Delegate and 2018 presidential runner-up believes this initiative will foster greater citizen participation and ownership of his vision for the country.
He said his party will collect the funds through a secure digital platform, with contributors receiving official receipts and symbolic rewards such as badges and virtual meetings with the candidate.
Kamto’s approach draws inspiration from international political campaigns, particularly in the United States and Europe, where politicians have successfully used crowdfunding to finance political movements.
According to MRC officials, this method not only secures funding but also strengthens the legitimacy of a candidate by demonstrating grassroots support.
Political analysts, however, caution that this strategy faces significant hurdles.
“Political donation culture in Cameroon remains weak,” notes Dr. Jean-Benoît Essomba, a political scientist at the University of Yaoundé.
“Additionally, the ruling party’s control over financial institutions may lead to increased scrutiny or restrictions on transactions linked to the opposition.”
Having secured 14 percent of the vote in 2018, Kamto remains one of the leading contenders for the 2025 presidential race.
However, his ability to mobilise financial resources will be a critical test of his electoral strength.
