Cameroon Political Opposition Leader Faces Legal Proceedings Regarding Electoral Turmoil, Authorities Says

Political Protest in Cameroon
Numerous in Cameroon express anger that Paul Biya has won an eighth term

Cameroon's Minister of the Interior the interior minister has stated that political opponent Issa Tchiroma Bakary will be prosecuted over accusations that he incited "violent electoral rallies".

At least four protesters have been fatally wounded during confrontations between police and military and demonstrators since Cameroon's election on October 12, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 winning an eighth presidential mandate.

Issa Tchiroma maintains that he won the election, a claim rejected by the governing party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).

Violent crackdowns by police and security officers on demonstrators have worried the global community, with the UN, African Union and European Union calling for moderation.

Official's Allegations

On Tuesday, Nji alleged Tchiroma Bakary of planning what he described as "unauthorized" protests leading to the loss of lives, and also condemned him for declaring victory in the election.

He further stated that Tchiroma Bakary's "associates behind an insurrectionary plan" will also face legal action.

Election Results

Paul Biya, who came to power in 1982 and is now the oldest serving president, won the 12 October election with a majority of the votes, compared to a significant minority for the challenger, according to the electoral authority.

Leader's Stance

Tchiroma Bakary is yet to respond to the government's decision to try him, but he had before declared that he rejected a rigged election - and that he was undaunted of being detained.

On election result day, he said that gunmen used lethal force on demonstrators present near his home in the city of Garoua, fatally wounding at least two civilians.

Investigation Revealed

On Tuesday, the interior minister disclosed that an investigation would be initiated into violent incidents prior to and following the announcement of the poll figures.

"Throughout the violence, some of the criminals died," he stated, without providing a specific number of demonstrators who have been fatally injured in the incidents.

Nji noted that several members of the law enforcement also received major harm.

Present Conditions

Even though Nji asserted the situation across the country was now under control, demonstrators continue to protest in some parts of the nation, especially in these two cities, where protesters mounted barricades on Tuesday, and set fire to tires on the thoroughfares.

Analysts warn that the political turmoil could plunge the nation into a political crisis.

John Wiley
John Wiley

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