Tchiroma’s Resignation: Cameroon’s Political Earthquake or Calculated Gamble?
On June 25, 2025, Cameroon’s political arena was significantly reshaped by the resignation of Issa Tchiroma Bakary, the former Minister of Employment and Vocational Training and a long-time ally of President Paul Biya. His departure not only marks the conclusion of more than two decades of government service, but also signals the potential emergence of a new phase of political reconfiguration, particularly within the country’s strategically important Northern Regions. “Let me be clear: centralization has failed,” Tchiroma declared during a rally in Garoua, setting the tone for what many now see as a revolutionary manifesto for federal reform (According to My Media Prime)
Issa Tchiroma Bakary held several high-ranking positions throughout his tenure in government, most notably serving as Minister of Communication. In this role, he was widely recognized for his vigorous defense of the regime during some of its most challenging periods, including the Anglophone crisis. A particularly memorable moment came during a televised interview, when his incredulous response “How can you say that?” went viral, symbolizing both his steadfast loyalty to the administration and the sharp public criticism that often accompanied it.
Tchiroma’s recent transfer to a less prominent ministerial role marked a noticeable decline in his political influence. Political insiders widely interpreted this shift as a sign of marginalization. His subsequent resignation now lends credence to longstanding speculation within Cameroon’s political circles that he had grown increasingly disconnected from the very system he once vigorously defended.
In a recent public address delivered in Garoua, Issa Tchiroma Bakary issued a rare and direct criticism of President Paul Biya’s 43-year rule. He highlighted the persistent hardships faced by populations in Northern Regions of Cameroon and underscored what he described as the systemic shortcomings of centralized governance. In his speech, Tchiroma passionately advocated for the establishment of a new federal framework, one that would be democratically determined through a national referendum, presenting a bold and unequivocal challenge to the existing centralized structure of the state.
In his remarks directed toward the Anglophone communities, Tchiroma emphasized that their ongoing crisis extends beyond security concerns, encompassing deeper issues of historical recognition, cultural identity, and political representation. His appeal for territorial equity and the empowerment of local communities struck a chord with many who have long felt sidelined by the centralized governance in Yaoundé.
> “The Republic must become once again what it should never have ceased to be: a common home—protective, just, and responsive.”
What ensued after his resignation proved even more revealing than the announcement itself: a noticeable silence from official channels. State-run media outlets such as Cameroon Tribune and CRTV remained conspicuously mute, further fueling speculation and exposing underlying tensions within the ruling RDPC coalition. In contrast, voices from the opposition swiftly framed the move as both a bold act of conscience and a calculated strategic maneuver.
According to Cameroon Concord, Minister Delegate Jean De Dieu Momo, a long-standing political figure, sharply condemned Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s resignation, characterizing it as “high treason.” His reaction underscores the extent to which the departure has rattled the political establishment and heightened anxieties within the ruling elite.
Political analysts suggest that Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s resignation could serve as a catalyst for significant political restructuring. Dr. Lydie Mbassa, a political science professor at the University of Douala, cautions that if the northern region begins to fragment and forge new alliances, particularly with influential figures such as Maurice Kamto and Guibaï Gatama the ruling party may be confronted with its most formidable electoral challenge in decades.
Tchiroma’s anticipated candidacy is expected to be formalized during the upcoming FSNC congress in Garoua. Although still unconfirmed, his potential bid for the presidency could significantly alter existing political alliances and pose a serious challenge to President Biya’s historically secure support base in northern Cameroon.
In a nation historically characterized by political continuity and deeply rooted patronage networks, Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s defection marks a moment of considerable upheaval. Whether his departure signals a principled awakening or a strategic repositioning remains open to interpretation. What is clear, however, is that the foundation has been set for an energized and potentially transformative electoral season. As the country approaches the polls, Cameroonians are observing the unfolding developments with a mix of anticipation, concern, and renewed civic awareness.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
