Cameroon is tallying votes from Sunday’s presidential election, where 92-year-old President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, is seeking an eighth consecutive term after 43 years in power. Biya faces nine challengers, but no official results have been released. The Constitutional Council is expected to announce the outcome within 15 days.
Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government spokesperson and key rival, has claimed victory, defying a government warning that premature result declarations constitute “high treason.” Tchiroma’s supporters clashed with security forces in his Garoua stronghold after his residence was cordoned off, with tear gas deployed. Tchiroma, a former Biya ally, reported receiving threats but vowed to remain at home, stating he is under “the protection of God and the Cameroonian people.”
Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji claimed the election proceeded smoothly across all 10 regions, dismissing reports of significant disruptions. However, opposition parties alleged voter suppression tactics, including the August disqualification of Maurice Kamto, a major contender. In the restive Anglophone regions, separatist threats led to low voter turnout, though some defied the boycott to cast ballots. Clashes were also reported in the north.
The election has heightened tensions, with the government accusing candidates of planning to preempt official results. The United Nations and regional bodies are monitoring the situation as Cameroon awaits the final outcome, which could shape the nation’s political future.
