As the presidential election of October 12, 2025, approaches, we, Cameroonian women, are deeply concerned about the future of our country. The current context, marked by security challenges in the Far North, East, North-West, and South-West regions, is compounded by other worrying political and social dynamics. We note several concerns related to the respect of the Electoral Code and the Constitution, the proliferation of hateful, tribal, and violent discourse, the dangerous instrumentalization of youth, and the shrinking of civic space, among others. These scourges accentuate the deterioration of the social fabric and raise fears for the peace and stability of our nation.

We, Cameroonian women and youth working for peaceful elections within the framework of the Cameroon Women’s Situation Room, are deeply concerned about the tense political and social situation that creates a climate of fear, intimidation, and radicalization. The belligerent and threatening discourse of certain public authorities, political actors, opinion leaders, and even some citizens only exacerbate the existing tensions and divisions.

Knowing that historically, women are those who pay the heavy toll in times of trouble and conflict and recognizing their crucial role in conflict prevention and resolution, as highlighted in United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, we cannot remain silent in the face of threats to our country and our communities.

These conflict-generating dynamics and, if not quickly stopped, threaten not only the electoral process but also social peace, institutional stability, and national cohesion.

We are particularly concerned about:

– Hateful and divisive discourse that threatens social cohesion.

– Non-respect of norms and rules of good governance that fuel instability, including lack of transparency and accountability in public affairs management; abuse of power, impunity, inequalities, and discrimination, etc.

– Poor respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms and continuous shrinking of the civic space.

– Non-respect of some provisions of the Electoral Code and certain provisions of the Constitution

– Increased Inter-community tensions and the rapid rise of tribalism

– Threats to freedom of expression and other human rights violations

– High cost of living and popular discontent

– Etc.

We, women, issue a heartfelt call to action to all women, youth, civil society organizations, and the broader citizenry, inviting them to:

– Join us in calling for a peaceful, transparent, and credible election through collective action.

– Reject hateful and divisive discourse

– Promote responsible and non-violent discourse, prioritizing peaceful and constructive forms of expression

– Promote transparency and integrity in the electoral process

– Prioritize individual and collective responsibility for the well-being of our country

– Denounce any conflict-generating situation and opt for peaceful claims in respect of laws

– Fight against hate speech, disinformation, fake news, and deepfakes on social media;

– Report to the competent authorities, the Women’s Situation Room, or human rights organizations in your community any situation that could undermine peace and social cohesion.

We believe that transparency and collective responsibility are essential to guarantee credible and peaceful elections. We call on all citizens to join us in demanding transparent, equitable, and peaceful elections.

We call on the competent authorities to:

– Take concrete measures to strengthen transparency and accountability in public affairs management.

– Promote participatory governance that involves citizens in the decision-making process.

– Take their responsibilities to guarantee peaceful, transparent, and equitable elections, in respect of the Constitution and the Electoral Code.

As women, we are bearers of life and peace. It is our responsibility to unite and safeguard our nation and our loved ones.  We encourage all actors, particularly women and youth, to take initiatives in favor of respect for human rights and peacebuilding. Together, we can and have a duty to work towards Cameroon regaining its legendary reputation as a haven of peace.

         Done in Douala, July 22, 2025.

         Women’s Situation Room Coordinating team

  Link to the form: https://forms.gle/faELWh15rd5rU4YV8