From the crowd drawn by the various candidates since the launching of the campaigns, one is forced to question how effective these numbers will count on election day.
Five days into the campaigns, various candidates are putting into action their strategies to canvass votes from electors. The turnout for all 9 contenders has been remarkable, in fact with some compelling admiration. But just like in every event, spectators have diverse reasons to have converged on that spot at that given moment. Last Sunday, one of the presidential hopefuls attracted quite a crowd like bees to honey. He was hailed and carried up by his supporters and his address to them received quite an ovation. This sent waves through the media which saw in the candidate an element of dynamism. But don’t be fooled.
On the very first day of campaigns, the CPDM mobilized thousands in nine of the ten regions of the country. In several rallies, its militants showed up clad in the party wear and ready for the race. Not only has the ruling party been doing the ground work in readiness for this day, it has equally ensured that its militants are not just passive spectators to an event but will actively take part in elections on October 7 2018. Were one to ask militants during the already held rallies to produce their voters’ cards, bet you, the response would be spontaneous. This is the strength Paul Biya’s Party has! Before now, it has ensured that its militants are equipped with the vital tool which will enable its candidate register an overwhelming victory unlike other political parties which have only surfaced now to pull crowds in market places and travel agencies.
As the days go by, it is evident that in outlining their programs for the country, the various candidates will build castles for their onlookers but the CPDM is not shaken in the face of any fantasy painted by anyone. The achievements of its candidate are telling. Even the social media on which a majority of the candidates have been depending to sway opinion to their favour is working on well oiled rails for Paul Biya. Recent surveys conducted as to the eventual winner in the election have put Paul Biya well ahead of his rivals. Aware that there is still much to be done to convince the hostile electorate, the CPDM is not intimidated by the shows put up by other camps but is working with its electorate on the field, knocking on each and every door to present their candidates program and ensure that the people they are reaching out to, are eligible to carry out their civic responsibility on d-day.