YAOUNDE, Cameroon (AP) — Cameroon’s electoral commission, known as ELECAM, announced on Saturday that it has rejected the candidacy of Maurice Kamto for the upcoming presidential election. This decision has heightened concerns about potential unrest and appears to solidify the likelihood of another electoral victory for long-serving President Paul Biya.

Maurice Kamto, a former government minister, has been recognized as Biya’s most significant challenger in the political landscape. The electoral commission disclosed that it had approved 13 presidential candidates but notably excluded Kamto without providing any specific reasoning for this decision. President Biya’s name was among those approved to run.

Kamto has two days to appeal the electoral commission's decision. In the most recent presidential election held in 2018, he was regarded as Biya's strongest rival, securing 14% of the votes compared to Biya's overwhelming victory, where he claimed over 70% of the votes—an election characterized by numerous irregularities and a notably low turnout.

At 92 years old, President Paul Biya is the oldest serving head of state in the world, having been in power since 1982, which constitutes nearly half of his life. Despite circulating rumors regarding his deteriorating health, Biya announced last month his intention to seek reelection on October 12.

Biya's prolonged rule has significantly influenced Cameroon, amidst various challenges such as persistent allegations of corruption and an ongoing secessionist conflict in the country’s English-speaking regions. This conflict has led to numerous disruptions, including forcing thousands of school children out of education.

The announcement of the approved candidates list has sparked rising fears of protests and civil unrest. In anticipation of potential disturbances, security forces have been deployed strategically around ELECAM headquarters as well as along major routes in Yaoundé, the nation’s capital, and in Douala, Cameroon’s economic center.

Furthermore, the United Nations Department of Safety and Security had issued warnings on Friday, indicating that the electoral announcement could incite protests in the capital, suggesting a tense atmosphere surrounding the electoral process.