Political commentator and civil society actor David Eboutou has publicly denied allegations that he received CFA200 million in connection with his support for President Paul Biya during the 2025 presidential election campaign.
In an interview published by DP Défense d’Afrique, Eboutou described the claims as unfounded rumors and said he had never received any money before or after the October 2025 presidential election in exchange for backing Biya’s candidacy.
The controversy emerged following reports and speculation suggesting that a sum of CFA200 million intended for Eboutou had allegedly been diverted by unidentified individuals. Responding to the claims, the coordinator of CPF-2025 said there had never been any arrangement that could have resulted in such a payment.
“I have not received a single CFA franc, either before or after the presidential election,” he said, adding that he had never even been received by any service of the Presidency.
While rejecting the allegation of receiving funds, Eboutou acknowledged that political engagement often involves expectations of recognition.
He argued that CPF-2025 had invested significant intellectual, material and financial resources in mobilizing support for Biya’s candidacy and had done so without external assistance.
The organization, he said, organized press conferences, field mobilization campaigns and produced informational materials defending its political position during the election period. According to Eboutou, all activities were financed from the group’s own resources.
“If we had received support, we would have said so,” he stated, while adding that it would be reasonable to expect what he described as a gesture of gratitude for the work carried out.
Eboutou also rejected suggestions that he is a partisan political activist. He said he has never been a member of any political party and described himself as an independent actor in civil society who has provided expertise to various political movements across the political spectrum.
Citing his involvement in public-interest campaigns and advocacy against what he considers social injustices, he maintained that his positions are guided by principles rather than partisan loyalty.
Asked whether he intends to launch a political party ahead of future elections, Eboutou gave a brief response: “No. It is not on the agenda.”
The allegations regarding the alleged CFA200 million payment have not been independently substantiated, and no evidence was presented during the interview to support the claim that such funds existed or were diverted.