Hundreds of protesters have clashed with security forces in several cities across Cameroon, a day before the results of a highly-contested presidential election are expected to be announced.
Police employed tear gas and water cannons against supporters of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary in Garoua, a key city in the north of the country.
The demonstrators denounced what they allege is a plan by the ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) to 'steal the victory' from Tchiroma Bakary.
Bakary asserts he won the election held on October 12, challenging incumbent President Paul Biya’s long-standing rule that spans more than four decades. The CPDM, however, has dismissed his claims.
The demonstrations were sparked by Bakary’s call for peaceful marches among his supporters in Cameroon and abroad to 'liberate' the country.
Authorities have since imposed a ban on gatherings until the constitutional council announces the election results on Monday.
Initially peaceful, the protests in Garoua escalated when security forces began to dispense teargas to disperse the crowd of supporters. Protesters held placards reading, 'We are not here for disorder. We're demanding the truth of the ballot.'
In Douala, Cameroon's economic capital, crowds also took to the streets chanting, 'We want Tchiroma!'
Following the election, Bakary publicly declared that he would not accept a 'stolen vote,' stating he had secured approximately 55% of the vote based on returns from individual polling stations, representing 80% of the electorate.
This election cycle has been marred by claims of irregularities, including allegations of ballot-stuffing, with judges on the constitutional council citing insufficient evidence in dismissing multiple complaints.
Despite not filing complaints with the council, which many perceive as biased toward Biya, Bakary has proclaimed himself the 'legal and legitimate president.' Tchiroma, who previously served as minister and defended Biya's administration, made a significant shift prior to the elections by resigning and running against his former ally.
