October 12 poll: ELECAM Chairperson prescribes vigilance, patriotism.

According to Dr Enow Abrams, they are aware of both the stakes and the opportunities of the electoral process. 

“We have definitively entered the final stretch. This is both a challenge, because of the magnitude of the stakes for our nation, and an opportunity, because it offers us a new chance to consolidate our democratic achievements and strengthen citizens’ confidence in the electoral process,” he declared. 

He reminded board members that democracy is “not a destination, but a journey that must be constantly nurtured and protected”. He urged all stakeholders to continue the republican adventure with determination and a sense of civic duty.

Calls for credible, peaceful elections

Dr Enow Abram, in his opening remark, outlined his vision for the October 12 poll, stressing the importance of transparency and inclusivity. 

“Thanks to our collective efforts, I firmly believe that it will once again be possible to make this historic election a success: an election that is efficient in its organisation, transparent and credible in its management, inclusive and peaceful in its overall conduct,” he said.

He equally used the session to appreciate board members and collaborators for the sacrifices made. He recalled that, despite returning only recently from an extensive field visit across the country, they immediately resumed preparations for the 8th National Consultation Forum which held on September 11.

“I am delighted to see you all here in such good shape, proof that we are well equipped for the challenges ahead,” he said.

According to Dr Enow Abrams, the strong turnout at the consultation forum reaffirmed the vitality of the country’s political space and highlighted the importance of dialogue. The event, he said, brought together political parties, civil society, state institutions, traditional authorities, the media, and international partners.

“By voicing their concerns and sharing their perspectives, these stakeholders contributed constructive ideas and fruitful proposals. They demonstrated a shared commitment to ensuring that the upcoming presidential election is credible, inclusive, transparent, and peaceful,” he said.

The sixth session, he explained, would focus on reviewing the findings of the Electoral Council’s field visit carried out from August 27 to September 6. The nationwide tour, he said, enabled members to assess preparations on the ground and gather feedback from local stakeholders.

“This meticulous exercise will enable us to effectively draw lessons that will facilitate, among other things, the adoption of the terms of reference for our mission to the diaspora,” Dr Enow Abrams announced.

ELECAM, the Chairperson said, is preparing to extend oversight to Cameroonian citizens living abroad, with a mission scheduled for September 13–23. During that time, electoral board members will visit 44 diplomatic missions and consular posts where voting will take place.

The mission, he said, will also oversee training sessions for ELECAM focal points and the chairpersons of local voting commissions within the diaspora. These steps, Dr Enow Abrams explained, are intended to guarantee that Cameroonians abroad participate in the presidential election under the same conditions of fairness and credibility as those at home.

Announces putting in place of vote counting commission

One of the key items on the agenda for the plenary session was the establishment of the National Commission for the General Counting of Votes. 

Dr Enow Abrams reminded members that this statutory body must be composed in strict compliance with Article 68 of the Electoral Code. 

Its role will be central to ensuring transparency in the aggregation of results once polling is completed.

Says success guaranteed 

The Chairperson remarked that despite the challenges, they remain optimistic about the country’s readiness. He described the coming weeks as decisive, but underscored his confidence in the dedication of ELECAM staff and the cooperation of political actors.

“It is my hope that these proceedings will give rise to constructive resolutions and that, through our combined efforts, we will ensure a transparent, credible, and peaceful presidential election,” Dr Enow Abram concluded.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3567 of Wednesday September 17, 2025