How did the CPDM remain Cameroon’s dominant political party after multiparty elections were allowed?

Following the transition to a multiparty system in 1990, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) maintained its dominance through a variety of tactics employed by President Paul Biya.12

While the country moved toward a multiparty political system, Biya resisted both domestic and international pressure to fully democratize. Key methods used to ensure the CPDM's continued control included:12

• Election Irregularities: Multiple presidential and legislative elections, including those in 1992, 1997, and 2011, were marred by widespread complaints of irregularities.12
• Constitutional Changes: In 2008, the National Assembly passed a controversial amendment that abolished presidential term limits, allowing Biya to remain in power indefinitely.12
• Institutional Consolidation: The creation of a 100-member Senate in 2013 further solidified the party's grip. The CPDM secured a majority of the elected seats, and when combined with the 30 seats filled by presidential appointment, the chamber remained firmly aligned with the administration.12

These actions allowed the CPDM to retain its status as the dominant political force despite the formal introduction of opposition parties.132