Government of Cameroon: Unitary Presidential Republic

Cameroon (spelled with one 'r') is a unitary presidential republic with a strong centralized executive.

Executive

• President: Head of state & government; elected by popular vote for 7-year terms (two-term limit since 2008 amendment, though debated). Appoints PM, cabinet, governors, judges, and heads of state enterprises.
• Prime Minister: Head of government administration; appointed by and accountable to the President.

Legislature

• Parliament: Bicameral since 2013.
  • National Assembly (Lower): 180 members, 5-year terms, elected via mixed system.
  • Senate (Upper): 100 seats (70 elected by regional councilors, 30 appointed by President).

Judiciary

• Supreme Court: Highest court; constitutional, judicial, and administrative chambers.
• Subordinate courts: Courts of Appeal, Tribunals of First Instance, Military Courts.

Political Reality

The CPDM (Cameroon People's Democratic Movement) has dominated since 1985. President Paul Biya (in power since 1982) won re-election in 2018. Elections are criticized for irregularities; opposition faces restrictions. Anglophone regions (NW/SW) have faced conflict since 2016.