Issa Tchiroma Bakary, the opposition leader in Cameroon, has proclaimed himself the winner of the October 12 elections, expressing a refusal to accept what he terms a “stolen vote.” Tchiroma Bakary, 76, contends that his team has calculated the electoral results based on data from polling stations, thus asserting his victory ahead of the official results expected on Monday. He previously held ministerial positions in President Paul Biya’s administration and has separated from Biya, who has governed for 43 years and is seeking re-election at 92.
The ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) has dismissed Tchiroma Bakary’s assertions, labeling his victory claims as illegal since only the Constitutional Council can announce official outcomes. Tchiroma Bakary has encouraged his supporters to defend their votes and expressed little fear regarding potential repercussions, stating, “I know that I have already won the presidential election.”
He asserts that he received approximately 55% of the vote based on data representing about 80% of the electorate. In response to a potential loss declared by the Constitutional Council, he indicated acceptance would depend on valid results rather than allegations of ballot tampering.
Amid increasing tensions over the delayed results, the Catholic Church in Cameroon has called for calm, fearing possible violence in a nation already facing separatist conflicts and the Boko Haram insurgency. Resident support in the English-speaking regions is notably high for Tchiroma Bakary, as many perceive him as a candidate for change against the long-standing Biya regime.
Tchiroma Bakary’s political journey includes years spent in prison due to a coup attempt allegation, followed by a rising political career. His recent approval among voters seems linked to widespread dissatisfaction with the current government, where issues such as economic stagnation and insecurity are prevalent.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2n7dq24glo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss