Cameroon’s political landscape is unraveling at an alarming pace, and filmmaker Jean Pierre Bekolo is sounding the alarm. In a searing new essay, he argues that the country is already experiencing the early stages of chaos that would follow President Paul Biya’s departure.

An authority vacuum that threatens stability

Bekolo asserts that Paul Biya’s symbolic authority remains the only force holding Cameroon together. Even in his advanced age and limited physical presence, his name still commands respect—a respect no current leader or institution can replicate. The absence of a clear successor has created a dangerous power vacuum, where rival factions jockey for influence behind the scenes.

The Cameroonian public is increasingly skeptical of those in power. Ministers, advisers, and even constitutional bodies are seen as protecting private interests over national sovereignty. Cases of disputed gold claims, questionable legal rulings, and prolonged leadership tenures have eroded public trust. Institutions meant to serve the people now appear self-serving, operating beyond democratic accountability.

Signs of systemic collapse

Every day brings new evidence of a state losing its grip:

• Mining officials publicly deny that national gold reserves are under government control, raising fears of foreign exploitation.
• The Constitutional Council, once seen as a pillar of justice, now faces accusations of political manipulation after validating decisions that benefit the status quo.
• Ministries have become ineffective, failing to address citizens’ daily struggles while their leaders cling to perks and privileges.
• Corporate leaders in state-owned enterprises hold onto positions indefinitely, with no clear process for renewal.
• Constitutional reforms pushed through by expired legislatures—extended illegally—have introduced new roles like a vice-presidency, further blurring lines of authority.

These incidents, each troubling on its own, collectively reveal a nation drifting toward instability. Without Biya, no leader or faction can command the legitimacy needed to govern.

The looming power struggle

Bekolo warns that the current behind-the-scenes rivalries will escalate into open conflict once Biya is no longer a unifying figure. The factions that have operated in the shadows will turn on each other, and institutions already weakened by corruption and mismanagement will collapse under the pressure.

Financial systems, public services, and national cohesion will fracture. Every decision, every appointment, every transfer of power will be contested. The result? A country paralyzed by infighting, where private interests supersede national needs.

A call for responsible departure

Rather than clinging to power through questionable means, Bekolo urges those in authority to take historic responsibility. He calls for a dignified exit: a transitional government tasked with rebuilding trust, restoring institutions, and organizing credible elections.

He cautions against desperate maneuvers—backroom deals, manipulated reforms, or artificial extensions of power—that would only deepen the crisis. Such actions will not prevent chaos; they will accelerate it.

The filmmaker’s message is clear: Cameroon stands at a crossroads. The path forward must prioritize national unity over personal ambition. Otherwise, the chaos he warns of will become reality.