CPDM

CPDM stands for the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement, a major political party in Cameroon. In French, the party is known as the Rassemblement Démocratique du Peuple Camerounais (RDPC), and in English-language contexts it is commonly referred to as CPDM. The party emerged in 1985, when the then ruling Cameroon National Union rebranded to CPDM under President Paul Biya, and it has since been the dominant force in national politics.

Ideology and goals of the CPDM emphasize national unity, political stability, and gradual economic reform within a broad-centre to centre-right framework. The party promotes a social market economy, development-focused governance, and Cameroonian participation in regional and continental institutions. Its platform has generally prioritized continuity, modernization of infrastructure, and social services, while maintaining a centralized political structure.

Organization and structure are centralized and hierarchical. The CPDM maintains a national leadership, including a president of the party, a central committee, and a national executive committee, with a network of regional and local delegations. It also operates auxiliary wings such as youth and women’s organizations that support mobilization and outreach across the country.

Political role and elections: the CPDM has been the ruling party in Cameroon since the mid-1980s, with its members and affiliates occupying major positions in the presidency, parliament, and many government bodies. It has historically faced opposition from parties such as the Social Democratic Front (SDF) and other groups, and its campaigns rely on a broad organizational network and long-standing political influence.

Criticism and reform: the CPDM has faced scrutiny over governance and democratic processes, including concerns about electoral fairness and political pluralism. Proponents argue that the party provides stability and continuity for development, while critics call for deeper reforms to ensure broader political participation.