Cameroonian Political Opposition Leader Confronts Court Action Regarding Election Unrest, Authorities Announces

Political Demonstration in Cameroon
Numerous in Cameroon express anger that Paul Biya has secured an eighth presidential term

Cameroon's Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji has stated that political opponent Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over allegations that he instigated "violent post-election demonstrations".

A minimum of four demonstrators have been fatally wounded during skirmishes between police and military and opposition supporters since the presidential election on 12 October, with 92-year-old President Paul Biya winning an eighth term in office.

Tchiroma Bakary insists that he emerged victorious, a statement disputed by the incumbent party, the ruling CPDM.

Aggressive responses by security personnel on protesters have concerned the world leaders, with the UN, AU and EU calling for caution.

Minister's Claims

Recently, Nji alleged the opposition figure of organising what he labeled "unlawful" demonstrations resulting in the fatalities, and also rebuked him for announcing success in the electoral contest.

He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "accomplices responsible for an subversive plot" will also face legal action.

Vote Outcome

The president, who assumed office in 1982 and is now the oldest serving president, won the 12 October election with 53.7% of the ballots, compared to 35.2% for the challenger, according to the electoral authority.

Leader's Stance

Issa Tchiroma is remains silent to the government's decision to bring him to court, but he had previously declared that he rejected a rigged election - and that he was not afraid of being taken into custody.

On election result day, he said that gunmen shot on protesters gathered near his house in the city of Garoua, fatally wounding at least 2 people.

Investigation Revealed

Earlier this week, the interior minister announced that an probe would be launched into clashes prior to and following the declaration of the poll figures.

"During these attacks, some of the individuals involved lost their lives," he commented, without providing a exact count of protesters who have been killed in the clashes.

The minister noted that a number of personnel of the police and military also sustained major harm.

Ongoing Circumstances

Even though Nji maintained the condition throughout Cameroon was now under control, protesters continue to protest in various areas of the nation, especially in urban centers, where protesters mounted obstructions on that day, and set fire to rubber on the thoroughfares.

Analysts warn that the election-related unrest could lead the nation into a governmental instability.

Christie Adams
Christie Adams

A former casino manager turned gambling analyst, specializing in slot machine mechanics and responsible gaming practices.