Tension continues to rise in Cameroon after opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary rejected the election victory of President Paul Biya, vowing to fight on “until final victory.” As streets filled with supporters demanding political change, civil society groups reported fatalities and mass arrests across several cities.
Biya, 92, the world’s oldest sitting head of state, has ruled Cameroon since 1982. His reelection, announced Monday following the October 12 vote, has further polarized the nation, with critics accusing him of using state institutions to maintain power.
In Douala, the country’s economic hub, protests flared again Wednesday morning. Roads remained littered with burnt tyres and debris following days of unrest. According to Stand Up For Cameroon, at least 23 protesters have been killed since the weekend amid a heavy security crackdown. Independent verification of the death toll remains unavailable, and government officials have not yet commented.
Despite the turmoil, parts of the city cautiously resumed daily activity; shops reopened and traffic slowly returned. Tchiroma, addressing the nation Tuesday, insisted the opposition won by a “large majority,” asserting that the fight continues for “the Cameroonian people.”
However, the Constitutional Council’s decision confirming Biya’s win is final and cannot be appealed. Other opposition figures have also alleged widespread electoral fraud—claims dismissed by the government.
Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji accused Tchiroma of provoking violence, saying he prematurely declared victory and encouraged civil unrest on social media. He further claimed protestors, allegedly under the influence of drugs, looted shops and set fire to public buildings, though no evidence was provided to support these statements.
Civil society groups report harsh conditions for detainees, citing accounts of beatings and humiliating treatment. Videos circulating online show violent scenes and families demanding the return of bodies—though independent authentication remains pending.
Authorities say security personnel were injured and dozens arrested, with over 200 people reportedly detained in Douala alone.
