Protests erupted in several cities across Cameroon, coinciding with the anticipation of results from the recent presidential election. The election took place on October 12, amid strong contestation. Demonstrators gathered primarily in Garoua, the stronghold of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, where security forces deployed tear gas and water cannons in response to the protest.
Demonstrators accused the ruling party, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), of attempting to undermine the election results in favor of incumbent President Paul Biya, who has held power for 43 years. Tchiroma Bakary has asserted that he won the election, claiming a majority of 55% based on preliminary results from polling stations.
The protests were initiated after Tchiroma Bakary called for his supporters, both domestically and in the diaspora, to march peacefully to demand the liberation of Cameroon. Authorities had prohibited gatherings until the official results were to be announced on Monday. Initially, the protests in Garoua were peaceful, but escalated following the use of tear gas by security forces, which prompted a more aggressive response from the crowds.
Supporters also rallied in Douala, the country’s economic hub, chanting for Tchiroma Bakary’s leadership. Tchiroma Bakary has previously stated that he would not accept electoral fraud and has voiced concerns over irregularities, including allegations of ballot-stuffing. Meanwhile, the CPDM has dismissed his claims of victory, emphasizing that the constitutional council is the only body authorized to announce official results.
The constitutional council has already rejected multiple petitions challenging the election results, citing lack of evidence for irregularities. Tchiroma Bakary, who declined to submit a complaint to the council, has declared himself the “legal and legitimate president.” A former government minister, Tchiroma Bakary has a history of opposing Biya’s regime, having served as communications minister until just months prior to his presidential candidacy.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly4x9n0yvno?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss