Cameroon's opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has declared himself the victor of the presidential elections held on October 12. With results pending, he firmly insists that he will not accept any electoral fraud. The 76-year-old former government minister argues that his team has collected data showing a clear path to his victory, suggesting a breakdown of trust in the incumbent's administration.
Having publicly distanced himself from President Paul Biya's regime, which has been in power for 43 years, Tchiroma Bakary is advocating for his supporters to defend their votes against any wrongdoing. Dressed in traditional attire, he expressed confidence during an interview in Garoua that he is the rightful president despite potential threats of arrest.
His bold claims have sparked immediate backlash from the ruling party, who label his pronouncements as illegal, maintaining that only the Constitutional Council holds the power to declare official results. Tchiroma Bakary counters by critiquing the ruling people's Democratic Movement (CPDM), arguing they are unable to cope with the reality of a possible electoral defeat.
As tensions rise across the country, fears of civil unrest loom, especially in the English-speaking regions long dissatisfied with perceived governmental neglect. Catholic leaders in Cameroon have called for peace and expressed hopes that the official announcement will reflect the true will of the people.
Tchiroma Bakary's journey from government spokesperson to a presidential contender is underscored by a history fraught with political turmoil, having faced imprisonment on accusations of plotting against Biya in the 1980s. His recent resignation from the government and subsequent political activism can be seen as a culmination of frustration with the state of governance in Cameroon.
Despite enjoying substantial support, his past ties to Biya's government have left some voters skeptical. Nonetheless, Tchiroma Bakary’s promises of change resonate with many citizens tired of the status quo, particularly as issues like unemployment and inflation continue to plague the nation.
