Cameroon’s 92-year-old President Paul Biya has been declared the winner of a highly contentious presidential election, securing an unprecedented eighth term in office. The Constitutional Council announced that Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, garnered 53.7% of the vote, while opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary trailed with 35.2%. The election, held on October 12, has been overshadowed by widespread violence and allegations of electoral fraud. Tchiroma Bakary, a former ally of Biya, had earlier claimed victory, but his assertions were dismissed by the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM). In the days following the election, deadly clashes erupted between Bakary’s supporters and security forces in cities like Douala and Garoua, resulting in multiple fatalities. Protesters accused the CPDM of orchestrating a plan to “steal the victory” from the opposition. The unrest has paralyzed the capital, Yaoundé, with schools and businesses shuttered and civil servants staying home. Voter turnout stood at 58%, and at least 10 petitions alleging electoral malpractice were rejected by the Constitutional Council. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, has yet to address the nation publicly, but his party has celebrated his re-election as a sign of “greatness and hope.” Critics, however, point to his prolonged absences, advanced age, and the country’s economic and social challenges, including a 40% youth unemployment rate and a decade-long separatist insurgency in the English-speaking regions. Analysts warn that Cameroon risks descending into political turmoil if the election results are perceived as illegitimate. Murithi Mutiga, Africa Program Director at the International Crisis Group, urged Biya to initiate national mediation to prevent further escalation.