In a dramatic turn of events, Cameroon’s opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary declared victory in the October 12 presidential election, challenging the long-standing rule of President Paul Biya, who has governed the nation for over four decades. Tchiroma, in a video statement on Facebook, asserted, ‘Our victory is clear, it must be respected,’ urging Biya to ‘accept the truth of the ballot box’ or risk plunging the country into chaos. However, neither Elections Cameroon, the independent body overseeing the poll, nor the constitutional court has released official results, which are expected by October 26 at the latest. Biya’s Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) swiftly dismissed Tchiroma’s claim, with Deputy Secretary-General Gregoire Owona stating that the opposition candidate lacks verified polling station results. Tchiroma pledged to share a detailed regional vote report in the coming days, while Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji warned that unauthorized result announcements would be considered ‘high treason.’ Tchiroma, a former government spokesperson and minister under Biya, garnered significant support from opposition parties and civic groups during his campaign. Analysts, however, predict a Biya victory, citing a divided opposition and the disqualification of his strongest rival in August. Biya, the world’s oldest president at 92, has ruled since 1982, facing challenges such as a deadly secessionist movement in the west and systemic corruption. Approximately 8 million voters participated in the single-round election, which awards the presidency to the candidate with the most votes. The 2018 election, marked by irregularities and low turnout, saw Biya secure over 70% of the vote, while opposition leader Maurice Kamto’s premature victory claim led to his arrest and widespread protests.
Cameroon opposition candidate Tchiroma claims victory in presidential election
