Economic Shutdown in Cameroon: A Nation at Crossroads

by All About Cameroon Today

Issa Tchiroma

Economic Shutdown in Cameroon: A Nation at Crossroads

Cameroon woke up today to an eerie silence as a nationwide economic shutdown began, following a call by Issa Tchiroma Bakary — the opposition presidential candidate who declared himself the rightful winner of the October 12, 2025, elections. The action marks stage three of his plan to “reclaim Cameroon from a ruthless dictator and his gang,” as he described it during a broadcast to his supporters.

The shutdown — a three-day peaceful civil disobedience campaign — comes in response to the Constitutional Council’s declaration of Paul Biya as the winner of the disputed elections. Biya, 92, has ruled Cameroon for over 43 years, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the world. Despite widespread reports of fraud and irregularities during the polls, the council reaffirmed his victory, igniting public outrage and deepening national divisions.

What the Shutdown Means

The call for a nationwide lockdown — popularly referred to as a “ghost town” — urges all citizens to stay home, shut down businesses, markets, schools, and transport, as a non-violent form of resistance. The aim, according to Tchiroma, is to cripple economic activities and “bring the administration to its knees,” forcing the regime to acknowledge what he calls “the true will of the people.”

In major cities such as Douala, Bamenda, and Yaoundé, early signs indicate mixed reactions. Some streets are deserted, shops closed, and transport systems paralyzed. Others, however, remain open, either out of defiance or economic necessity.

The Implications

If the shutdown is widely observed, the impact on Cameroon’s already fragile economy could be severe. The country has been struggling with inflation, unemployment, and insecurity — a total halt in business for three days would cost millions in revenue and disrupt essential services. Yet, for many citizens, this may be a sacrifice worth making if it accelerates political change.

Conversely, if the shutdown fails, it could embolden the Biya regime, signaling dwindling resistance and further consolidation of power. It may also expose Tchiroma’s movement to crackdowns, arrests, and repression — a risk many fear but others are willing to take in pursuit of freedom.

A Nation in Waiting

As the first day unfolds, Cameroonians watch closely — divided between fear, hope, and fatigue. Whether this shutdown becomes the turning point in Cameroon’s political history or just another episode of failed resistance depends on the collective resolve of its people. One thing remains certain: Cameroon stands at a crossroads, and the world is watching.