As Cameroon's presidential election campaign officially kicks off, there's a telling detail that speaks volumes about the state of the nation's politics. With President Paul Biya notably absent from the country during this crucial launch, his ruling CPDM party has chosen to lead their campaign with an AI-generated video.
The choice has sparked widespread condemnation, and for good reason. After 43 years in power since 1982, one might expect a campaign to showcase concrete achievements, tangible progress, and a legacy of development. Instead, we're seeing artificial intelligence step in where authentic accomplishments should speak for themselves.
The Irony Is Hard to Miss
When a political party turns to computer-generated imagery instead of highlighting real achievements after more than four decades in power, it raises uncomfortable questions. What does it say about a leadership's record when artificial content becomes preferable to actual results?
The criticism isn't just about the medium—it's about what the medium represents. In a country blessed with fertile land, oil reserves, natural gas, and mineral wealth, Cameroon continues to struggle with growth rates below population expansion and youth unemployment exceeding 40%. Basic infrastructure still lags behind regional peers, despite the nation's tremendous potential.
A Broader Trend
This AI-generated campaign video isn't happening in isolation. Across Africa, where 17 countries are scheduled to hold elections in 2025, artificial intelligence is increasingly being weaponized in political campaigns. The technology that should be enhancing democratic discourse is instead being used to manufacture content where genuine achievements might be lacking.
The Absent President Problem
The timing adds another layer of concern. As his party launches what could be his final campaign at age 92, President Biya's absence from the country during this critical moment sends its own message about priorities and engagement with the democratic process.
The October 12, 2025 election represents a potential turning point for Cameroon. Whether voters will accept AI-generated promises over tangible results remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: when a four-decade political legacy requires artificial enhancement, it may be time for voters to consider what authentic leadership could accomplish in the next chapter of their nation's story.
What are your thoughts on political parties using AI-generated content in campaigns? Should there be regulations governing artificial content in elections? Share your views in the comments below.
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