Multi-Stakeholder Coalition Raises Alarm, Urges Vigilance Against Hate Speech and Disinformation Ahead of Cameroon’s 2025 Presidential Election

By Nadine Bindey-EWER monitor

In the tense run-up to Cameroon’s 2025 presidential elections, marked by rising political polarization and a worrying surge in hate speech and disinformation, Civic Watch has emerged as a pivotal force. Since May 2025, Civic Watch has been spearheading a series of multi-stakeholder consultation meetings to foster collaboration among civil society organizations, the media, government agencies, and community leaders in addressing the toxic narratives that threaten Cameroon’s fragile peace and democratic integrity.

The coalition’s latest meeting on September 23, 2025, brought together diverse actors, including representatives from political organizations, youth groups, the Ministry of Communication, and media watchdogs. It provided a vital platform for sharing insights on the prevalence of hateful and false narratives spreading across social media and traditional outlets. This meeting also reviewed efforts by coalition members to raise awareness, counter misinformation, and promote critical media literacy, especially targeting young people, who are both victims and vectors of misinformation.

Stakeholders have been highlighting the serious consequences of hate speech and disinformation on national unity and electoral trust.  The open letter from the coalition, addressed to political parties, media, ELECAM, public authorities, civil society, and all citizens, strongly condemns these damaging behaviors. It emphasizes that hate speech is more than careless words; it deepens historical wounds, stirs division, and erodes trust vital for peaceful coexistence. Disinformation, propagated by some media professionals and political figures seeking sensationalism, manipulates public opinion and undermines democratic processes.

The letter calls on every stakeholder, political parties, to reject divisive rhetoric; the media to uphold strict ethical standards and rigorous fact-checking; election management bodies to safeguard impartiality; public authorities to ensure security and fair access to information; and civil society and citizens to remain vigilant against falsehoods and hateful content. The coalition urges collective responsibility, reminding all that the legacy we leave depends on the actions or silences of today.

A Call to Political Parties to Lead with Unity and Responsibility

Political parties hold a unique responsibility in shaping Cameroon’s electoral climate. The coalition urges them to reject manipulative tactics that exploit ethnic, religious, or social divisions. All communications must be grounded in transparency and sincerity, focusing on policy solutions rather than fear-mongering. Parties are also encouraged to guide their supporters toward respect and civility in public forums and online spaces to prevent polarization.

The Media’s Role to Uphold Ethics, Prioritize Truth

Professional journalism is a bulwark against misinformation. The coalition calls on media outlets to rigorously fact-check and select voices that promote informed discourse over division. Ethical reporting can counter sensationalism, reducing hate speech’s amplification and fostering social cohesion. Media professionals are reminded that their work impacts national stability and that adherence to truth is critical in this pivotal period.

Election Management Bodies to safeguard Fairness and Transparency

Bodies like ELECAM are tasked with ensuring elections are free, fair, and inclusive. The coalition emphasizes impartiality and equal enforcement of rules to maintain public confidence. Monitoring and regulating misinformation that compromises transparency is essential to protect the vote’s legitimacy and the people’s trust.

Public Authorities to Uphold Neutrality and Support Dialogue

Government actors are called to prioritize the public interest above partisan concerns. Ensuring security, safeguarding access to accurate information, and fostering tolerance and dialogue are key to maintaining peace. The National Communication Council, in particular, must enact its regulatory role forcefully and impartially to swiftly address professional misconduct that undermines electoral integrity.

Civil Society and Citizens to  Vigilant Guardians of Truth

Civic organizations continue to play a frontline role by monitoring, reporting, and educating on misinformation. Initiatives like 237 Check’s WhatsApp verification platform empower citizens to question and verify information before sharing. The coalition appeals to all Cameroonians, including diaspora communities, to adopt critical and responsible attitudes, rejecting hateful content even when aligned to their beliefs.

Despite challenges, coalition members have launched impactful initiatives, including digital campaigns to flag hateful content, school sensitization programs fostering media literacy, and citizen networks reporting misinformation in real-time. However, issues like coordination, recognition, and sustainable funding persist as barriers.

Looking Forward

Civic Watch and its partners embody how collective civil society can uphold democracy and social unity. Their work provides a framework not only for responding to current electoral challenges but for fostering long-lasting peace and trust in Cameroon’s future. Financing discussions during the meeting led to proposals for thematic task divisions, collective fundraising, and direct contributions from members to maintain transparency and solidarity.

Civic Watch’s efforts exemplify how united civil society actions can protect democracy and social cohesion in Cameroon. By fostering early collaboration, encouraging respectful dialogue, and empowering citizens to challenge misinformation, the coalition provides hope amid potential electoral unrest. As the electoral campaigns begin, the coalition’s open letter serves as a firm call for peace, truth, and collective action to safeguard Cameroon’s democratic future and social harmony.

This open letter echoes a solemn reminder: Cameroon’s fate hinges on concerted action against hate and falsehood. This coalition stands as a beacon, urging all actors to take up responsibility and safeguard the nation’s democratic promise.