Cameroonian opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, contesting the outcome of the presidential election, has fled to The Gambia for his safety, as confirmed by the Gambian government. Tchiroma Bakary insists he is the legitimate winner of the 12 October election, alleging that the results were rigged to secure President Paul Biya's eighth term in office.
The Gambian information ministry reported that Tchiroma Bakary arrived on 7 November and is temporarily staying on humanitarian grounds. The Cameroonian government has threatened to prosecute him for allegedly inciting violent demonstrations, which he denies, placing the blame on security forces for the crackdown.
Reports indicate that during post-election violence, the Cameroonian government recorded 16 deaths, although independent organizations have reported a higher toll. Tchiroma Bakary, a former minister in Biya’s administration, received 35.2% of the votes, while Biya, at 92 years old, claimed victory with 53.7% amid widespread allegations of fraud.
Tchiroma Bakary has vowed to continue resisting Biya's government until his electoral victory is recognized, organizing protests and advocating for civil unrest through 'ghost town' initiatives aimed at halting daily activities.
Upon his arrival, the Gambian government emphasized that he would not be used for any subversive activities against Cameroon. Meanwhile, the Gambian opposition has expressed concerns about the government's delayed disclosure of Tchiroma Bakary's arrival, emphasizing the need for transparency in political affairs. The country stands firm in its commitment to ensuring Tchiroma Bakary's safety while pursuing diplomatic solutions to the political unrest in Cameroon.
The Gambian information ministry reported that Tchiroma Bakary arrived on 7 November and is temporarily staying on humanitarian grounds. The Cameroonian government has threatened to prosecute him for allegedly inciting violent demonstrations, which he denies, placing the blame on security forces for the crackdown.
Reports indicate that during post-election violence, the Cameroonian government recorded 16 deaths, although independent organizations have reported a higher toll. Tchiroma Bakary, a former minister in Biya’s administration, received 35.2% of the votes, while Biya, at 92 years old, claimed victory with 53.7% amid widespread allegations of fraud.
Tchiroma Bakary has vowed to continue resisting Biya's government until his electoral victory is recognized, organizing protests and advocating for civil unrest through 'ghost town' initiatives aimed at halting daily activities.
Upon his arrival, the Gambian government emphasized that he would not be used for any subversive activities against Cameroon. Meanwhile, the Gambian opposition has expressed concerns about the government's delayed disclosure of Tchiroma Bakary's arrival, emphasizing the need for transparency in political affairs. The country stands firm in its commitment to ensuring Tchiroma Bakary's safety while pursuing diplomatic solutions to the political unrest in Cameroon.
