In Cameroon, the 2025 presidential campaign took on a unique dimension, with religious rhetoric playing a prominent role. The defection of Issa Tchiroma, a former loyalist of President Paul Biya, ignited hope among Biya’s opponents. A native of the North, a historically disadvantaged region, Tchiroma earned the nickname “good devil” after a notable sermon by the bishop of Yagoua. Meanwhile, Biya’s camp called on divine support for the incumbent president, who was 92 years old at the time and had faced repressed protests over his re-election. The campaign gained further attention after the death of Marcel Niat Njifenji, the former Senate president, in April 2026. A young Cameroonian internet user was sentenced to six months in prison for a Facebook post that included a prayer referencing the president. The message, interpreted as a wish for Biya’s downfall, echoed sentiments shared by many who believed only divine intervention could end Biya’s 42-year rule. This sentiment had been previously expressed in a controversial sermon by the bishop of Yagoua, who had suggested that the devil take power in Cameroon, a statement that sparked widespread discussion. The presidential campaign, which began in late 2024, saw Tchiroma, a 79-year-old former minister, resign from the government and declare his candidacy. His move was seen as a significant development, as he had once been a staunch supporter of Biya. Tchiroma was given the nickname “good devil” by some media, highlighting his role as a defector from the regime. His appeal stemmed from his insider status and the charisma he had developed during his years in government, which made him a symbol of change for many Cameroonians. The campaign also saw tensions within the church, with the bishop of Yagoua facing pressure from higher church authorities. The archbishop of Yaoundé criticized the bishop for instrumentalizing religious sermons for political purposes. Meanwhile, the political landscape shifted as Tchiroma’s candidacy challenged the status quo, and the election results showed a close race, with Biya securing a narrow victory. The post-election period led to unrest, with Tchiroma claiming victory and organizing protests, resulting in significant repression and loss of life. Tchiroma later fled to The Gambia, while the regime sought to reinforce its legitimacy through religious and political alliances, including the planned visit of Pope Léon XIV, seen by some as a move to exorcise dissent and reaffirm divine support for Biya’s rule.