Cameroonian Political Opposition Leader to Face Legal Action Over Post-Election Violence, Government Says

Election Demonstration in Cameroon
Many in Cameroon show outrage that the president has secured an eighth term

Cameroon's Minister of the Interior the interior minister has announced that political opponent Issa Tchiroma Bakary will be prosecuted over allegations that he provoked "violent election protests".

No fewer than 4 demonstrators have been lost their lives during clashes between security forces and opposition supporters since Cameroon's election on October 12, with the 92-year-old head of state securing an eighth presidential mandate.

Issa Tchiroma maintains that he won the election, a assertion disputed by the governing party, the ruling CPDM.

Forceful measures by law enforcement on protesters have alarmed the global community, with the United Nations, AU and European Union urging caution.

Official's Allegations

Earlier this week, the interior minister alleged the opposition figure of planning what he described as "unauthorized" protests resulting in the deaths, and also condemned him for declaring victory in the election.

He noted that the opposition leader's "co-conspirators responsible for an rebellious scheme" will also undergo judicial processes.

Poll Figures

Paul Biya, who came to power in the early 80s and is now the oldest serving president, obtained the 12 October election with 53.7% of the ballots, compared to 35.2% for Tchiroma Bakary, according to the electoral authority.

Challenger's Position

Issa Tchiroma is yet to respond to the authorities' move to bring him to court, but he had before declared that he would not accept a fraudulent outcome - and that he was fearless of being arrested.

When results were announced, he claimed that security forces opened fire on demonstrators present near his house in Garoua, fatally wounding at least 2 civilians.

Probe Launched

Earlier this week, the interior minister disclosed that an probe would be launched into violent incidents surrounding the announcement of the vote outcome.

"Throughout the violence, some of the criminals died," he stated, without offering a precise figure of demonstrators who have been lost their lives in the clashes.

Nji noted that several personnel of the security forces also suffered significant wounds.

Current Situation

While Nji insisted the state of affairs across the country was now stable, protesters remain active in some parts of the country, especially in urban centers, where protesters mounted barricades on Tuesday, and ignited rubber on the thoroughfares.

Experts warn that the post-electoral violence could push the country into a leadership vacuum.

Jaime Gonzales
Jaime Gonzales

Marcus Thorne is a seasoned gambling industry analyst with over a decade of experience covering sports betting trends and regulatory developments across Europe.