25/07/2025
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Cameroon /October 2025 POLLS.
Journalists "trapped in a web of political distractions"
The heat is high in Cameroon as anxiety rises among politicians, civil society, and citizens as the country subtly moves toward the October 12, 2025 presidential elections.
The elections governing body, ELECAM, officially closed the door for candidates to deposit their nomination files on July 21, 2025.
However, as events unfold, the bone of contention lies in the role of Cameroonian media, tactically managing this phase marked by what some have coined as joke-uncertainty, especially regarding the discourses that surrounded the last day for the submission of files by potential candidates. Various captions and headlines flooded the media landscape, creating an overall impression that most did not pertain to the country's ideal needs or address the pertinent and relevant questions necessary to navigate this fragile and crucial period for Cameroon.
Is activism and citizen journalism taking over conventional journalism in Cameroon?
Journalists in Cameroon find themselves at a crossroads, grappling with numerous distractions in a highly polarized political landscape. The media appears caught in a web of distraction as they continue to fulfill their role as public watchdogs, among others.
The critical task, however, is to set an agenda that prioritizes the significant issues facing the nation. Journalists are advised to remain vigilant and avoid becoming ensnared by the political rhetoric and ideologies propagated by those with political ambitions, as personal agendas often take precedence over the collective good. How the media navigates this period will determine the choices of eligible voters come October 12, 2025.
It is, therefore, essential to be selective about the information presented to the public; failing to do so risks our integrity and professionalism and even puts the country in a precarious state. The quest to see a different face at the Unity Palace shouldn't derail journalists from the true objectives or actual stakes of the country. Yes, the social contract between the government and its citizens has largely been breached in Cameroon. However, sensationalism and subjective reporting can distract from crucial topics like governance, human rights, and social cohesion. Taking political distractions from politicians to occupy newspaper headlines and newsroom agendas will foster polarization and vulnerability, derailing the public from the real stakes. The media tactics and diplomacy henceforth should be critically examined in Cameroon.
To navigate these challenges, we should tactically incorporate the concepts of gatekeeping, selective perception—how individuals filter information based on their pre-existing beliefs—and selective exposure—seeking out information that reinforces those beliefs—into our discussions. By acknowledging these theories, we can better understand our audience's needs and determine what is genuinely important for the country. Our objective should be to focus on truthful, critical, and solution-oriented reporting to foster informed public discourse, with the hope of becoming champions of a new era for Cameroon across every sphere.
Imagine what could happen if the media in Cameroon is able to change the mindset or perception of Cameroonians, especially in the realm of politics. I bet many would refuse to settle for less (like bread and sardines or 2000 francs, among other things).
There needs to be a blend between conventional journalism and citizen journalism, or "activist journalism," to help propel the nation from its current state of internal vulnerability. This vulnerability can significantly affect its diplomatic and security standing amidst complex global dynamics. Media bosses and journalists should employ tactical and critical media diplomacy to mitigate the susceptibility of Cameroon and encourage positive development, civic engagement, accountability, transparency, peace, and security—not only within government institutions but also at the grassroots level.
It’s understandable that the political situation and selfish tactics employed by various stakeholders have made the situation in Cameroon more complex. However, vigilance among journalists will help to stifle and challenge agendas that do not benefit the Cameroonian public.
In conclusion, there is, therefore, a clarion call to journalists to take proactive steps toward promoting accuracy and integrity. They must remain vigilant to avoid being intentionally or unintentionally used by those seeking power and fame. We must refuse to be a catalyst for distraction in Cameroon. (I know sometimes the package (Gombo) is heavy, but does it suffice?)
I know some media bosses in Cameroon think just business and not the future of Cameroon (Ambiguity looms, but change is sure and the only constant thing.
NB: "The global changes especially along international relations and global politics changed when the media agenda change." Today, the USA is fighting to maintain Western hegemony that remained sustainable over centuries because mainstream media helped in keeping the agenda in place by dictating public perceptions and exposure that aligned just with Western ideologies. However, the rise of alternative media outlets has challenged the status-quo bringing a change in public discourse. Today, we applaud revolutionary Burkina Faso and others. It all starts from telling the people the truth and widening their horizons.
Journalism should not incite but educate , inspire , change perception, and policy, among others.
By setting a responsible agenda, we can help shape a future that aligns with the aspirations of our society, which will eventually change the financial status quo for journalists, especially in private media.
DO NOT DERAIL FROM YOUR PRIMARY ROLE.
IF WE CAN CHANGE THE MINDSET, WE HAVE CHANGED CAMEROON
SO AS A JOURNALIST IN CAMEROON, ASK YOURSELF CORE QUESTIONS.
HOW CAN I USE MY PROFESSION TO TACTICALLY REDEFINE PERCEPTIVES IN MY COUNTRY WITH LITTLE NEGATIVE EFFECTS.
WHEN YOU PROMOTE RANCUR OR ANTAGONISM , YOU KILL THE REASONING PROWESS OF CITIZENS. ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT WE ALL SUFFER THE RAMIFICATIONS OF WHAT EVER HAPPENS
Opinion piece by Wiydorven Clarisse
PanAfrican journalist/Tv host/Media and public relations officer.
