For many, the relocation is more than just a logistical measure; it also provides psychological relief.

Early Sunday morning, October 12, voters in Buea made longer trips to new polling stations after Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) moved voting sites from military barracks and traditional palaces to neutral public spaces. At Molyko and Brigade Routière in Soppo, voters who once cast their ballots in military areas were redirected to nearby schools. Pride Nking, who walked over 40 minutes to Government School Great Soppo, said he felt comfortable voting away from armed forces. “I’m just relieved I wasn’t going to any police station to exercise this civic duty,” he added.

For many, the relocation is more than logistical, it is psychological relief. A 60 year-old IDP in Buea shared in pidgin, “Thing way man don pass through, I no di like for see dis pipo them. Make I vote for here.” His words reflect years of fear and tension tied to the heavy security presence in the South West Region.

ELECAM ‘S relocation decision in August 2025 followed sustained pressure from opposition figures and civil society. Joshua Osih, candidate and chairman of Social Democratic Front (SDF), had exposed over 1,114 polling stations in barracks and palaces, warning they intimidate voters and create room for rigging. He urged ELECAM to act, and the response has already changed the voting atmosphere.

SDF National Secretary for Political Education, Richard Ndifor, told datacameroon.com he visited several stations in Buea and was glad to see actions taken. He said the move “doesn’t necessarily translate to votes for the opposition, but it guarantees freedom of choice.”

Civil society actor Nji Lucas, polling station chairman at Mile 16 Bolifamba, said turnout was visibly better compared to 2018. “Unlike before, voters feel free to come out without fear. Chiefs can no longer monitor or influence their votes,” he said.

ELECAM official Khikishy Kenneth confirmed the relocation affected 12 barracks across the South West, impacting over 1,000 voters.

While the opposition may not defeat Paul Biya at the polls, the reform marks a democratic step forward. By removing polling stations from sites associated with fear, ELECAM has boosted voter confidence and participation in a region long scarred by conflict.

“True democracy is not only about who wins — it’s about making every voter feel safe to choose,” a local observer noted.

By Jude MBAKU