Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick and Jackson Lead Letter Urging Strong U.S. Response to Post-Election Crisis in Cameroon
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), alongside several of their colleagues, sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing deep concern over the ongoing post-election crisis in the Republic of Cameroon following the October 12, 2025, presidential election.
The letter highlights widespread human rights violations, electoral irregularities, and ongoing political violence that threaten to destabilize not only Cameroon, but the broader Central African region. The lawmakers warn that this instability undermines both U.S. security and economic interests.
"The people of Cameroon have shown incredible courage and commitment to democracy," said Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL). "Yet, their voices are being silenced through intimidation, violence, and the suppression of basic freedoms. The United States must stand firm in supporting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Cameroon and across Africa."
The letter documents several serious electoral and human rights concerns, including:
- The disqualification of opposition leaders and the suppression of independent civil society;
- Arbitrary arrests and detentions of political activists, journalists, and human rights defenders;
- Ballot irregularities in major cities such as Douala, Bamenda, and Garoua; and
- Post-election violence, including the deaths of civilians and political figures.
The lawmakers urged the Department of State to take the following actions:
- Press the Cameroonian government to release political prisoners and respect fundamental freedoms;
- Hold perpetrators of human rights abuses accountable;
- Encourage all parties to renounce violence and engage in peaceful dialogue; and
- Support inclusive international mediation to facilitate a peaceful and democratic transition.
Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick emphasized that Cameroon’s stability is vital to regional counterterrorism efforts against Boko Haram and ISIS–West Africa, as well as to the security of the Gulf of Guinea, which is critical to global trade and energy supply.
Read the full letter here.