Cameroon's Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji has confirmed that opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary will face legal proceedings related to allegations of inciting violent protests following the recent presidential election. The election, held on October 12, resulted in 92-year-old President Paul Biya winning his eighth consecutive term amidst growing unrest.
Nji indicated that Tchiroma Bakary's claims of winning the election were unfounded, as Biya secured 53.7% of the votes compared to Tchiroma's 35.2%, according to the Constitutional Council. The opposition leader has been vocal about his belief that the election was rigged and previously stated he would not accept a 'stolen vote.'
In the days following the election, at least four people have reportedly died due to violent clashes between security forces and opposition supporters. The International community, including the United Nations and the African Union, has called for calm and restraint as the situation develops.
On October 29, Minister Nji accused Tchiroma Bakary of organizing illegal protests leading to casualties. He also stated that other associates involved in what he described as an 'insurrectionary plan' would also face legal consequences.
While Tchiroma Bakary has not publicly commented on his impending legal troubles, he expressed strong opposition to the government’s actions, asserting his right to protest against what he perceives as a fraudulent election.
Despite claims that security is now under control, sporadic protests continue in several regions, where demonstrators have erected barricades and burned tires on the streets. Analysts suggest the potential for these events to escalate into a more significant political crisis.
As the situation evolves, the government has announced an investigation into the incidents of violence surrounding the election results announcement, raising concerns about the future of political stability in Cameroon.
