Cameroon’s upcoming presidential election, scheduled for October, has drawn a record 81 candidate applications—a historic figure that underscores growing political tension and calls for change. The national electoral body closed the submission window at midnight on Monday.

Among the applicants are several familiar faces returning for a second bid at the presidency. Notably, Bello Bouba Maïgari, who recently severed ties with incumbent President Paul Biya, is once again entering the race. Similarly, opposition figures Maurice Kamto and Cabral Libii are recontesting the election under new political banners.

Despite the large number of candidates, the field remains overwhelmingly male. Only seven women submitted applications, including Eliane Véronique Eboutou and independents Mbengono Zouame Epse Ndzie Ngono Guyleine and Géneviève Zeh Amvene.

Still dominating the political stage is 92-year-old Paul Biya, Africa’s longest-serving head of state. Having ruled for over four decades, Biya has confirmed he will seek another term, even as concerns mount over his health and governance capacity. Analysts remain skeptical that the election will loosen his firm grip on power, particularly amid allegations of limited democratic transparency.

Biya recently reshuffled key military leadership positions—a move widely interpreted as an attempt to consolidate control and secure military backing for his re-election bid.

With the number of contenders seen as a potential sign of political fragmentation and public yearning for change, all eyes now turn to Cameroon’s electoral council, which is tasked with vetting and approving the candidate list. The final lineup will be made public no later than 60 days before the election.