Cameroon is facing heightened political tensions following the October 12 presidential election, with at least 20 individuals arrested in connection with protests against alleged electoral irregularities. Authorities confirmed the arrests on Tuesday, as the nation awaits the official proclamation of results expected later this week. Paul Atanga Nji, Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration, stated that the protesters, detained in the northern city of Garoua, will face military courts on charges of insurrection and incitement to rebellion. Others involved in criminal activities have been transferred to Yaounde for further investigation. Nji accused political actors of manipulating the arrested individuals, emphasizing the government’s concern over acts of provocation and disorder. Opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who claimed victory last week, has urged President Paul Biya, 92, to concede. Biya’s party has dismissed Tchiroma’s claims, accusing him of attempting to disrupt the electoral process. The Constitutional Council is set to announce the final results by October 26. Analysts predict a victory for Biya, citing a divided opposition and the disqualification of his strongest rival in August. Post-election protests have erupted in several cities, fueled by allegations of fraud, including vote tampering and ballot stuffing. Civil society groups and the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon have reported irregularities such as the relocation of polling stations and outdated electoral registers containing names of deceased individuals. Tchiroma has published results from 18 administrative units on his Facebook page, claiming they represent 80% of the electorate and confirm his victory. His posts have drawn both support and skepticism. Tchiroma, a former government spokesperson under Biya, has garnered significant backing from opposition parties and civic groups. Biya, in power since 1982, has presided over a nation grappling with a secessionist movement in the west and systemic corruption, despite its rich natural resources.
Cameroon arrests at least 20 protesters as tensions escalate after presidential election
