Some opposition demands regarding voting rights for the diaspora were met before the election, when lawmakers passed an amendment to the electoral law in July 2011.

[2][3] Fifty other people submitted paperwork to ELECAM, the electoral commission, seeking to stand as presidential candidates.

[4] Daniel Soh Fone of the United Socialist Party withdrew before the election, giving his support to Biya.

[5] The United States Ambassador to Cameroon, Robert P. Jackson and former colonial power France have criticized the election, citing irregularities.

Fred Mitchell, former Foreign Minister of The Bahamas, led the Commonwealth mission to Cameroon; he said that there were no signs that people were coerced to vote and the election was conducted peacefully.