Cameroonian Opposition Figure to Face Legal Proceedings Regarding Post-Election Violence, Authorities Announces

Election Protest in Cameroon
Many in Cameroon express anger over the fact that the president has won an eighth presidential term

Cameroon's Minister of the Interior the interior minister has announced that opposition leader Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over allegations that he provoked "aggressive election protests".

A minimum of four protesters have been fatally wounded during confrontations between law enforcement and protesters since the electoral process on October 12, with the 92-year-old head of state winning an eighth term in office.

Issa Tchiroma asserts that he was the true winner, a claim dismissed by the incumbent party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).

Forceful measures by security personnel on demonstrators have concerned the world leaders, with the United Nations, AU and European Union demanding moderation.

Official's Allegations

On Tuesday, Nji accused the opposition figure of coordinating what he labeled "unauthorized" demonstrations leading to the loss of lives, and also rebuked him for claiming win in the election.

He noted that the opposition leader's "accomplices behind an rebellious scheme" will also be prosecuted.

Poll Figures

Paul Biya, who assumed office in 1982 and is now the most elderly national leader, secured the 12 October vote with 53.7% of the ballots, compared to just over a third for the challenger, according to Cameroon's Constitutional Council.

Leader's Stance

Tchiroma Bakary is has not yet commented to the official announcement to prosecute him, but he had earlier declared that he refused to acknowledge a stolen vote - and that he was not afraid of being arrested.

On election result day, he reported that gunmen used lethal force on demonstrators gathered near his residence in Garoua, fatally wounding at least two people.

Probe Announced

Earlier this week, the interior minister revealed that an inquiry would be initiated into violent incidents before and after the announcement of the election results.

"In the course of these incidents, some of the individuals involved were killed," he said, without giving a specific number of demonstrators who have been fatally injured in the clashes.

The minister noted that a number of officers of the security forces also suffered significant wounds.

Ongoing Circumstances

Even though the interior minister maintained the state of affairs nationwide was now under control, protesters are still demonstrating in certain regions of the nation, especially in Douala and Garoua, where protesters mounted roadblocks on Tuesday, and ignited rubber on the thoroughfares.

Observers caution that the election-related unrest could lead the nation into a governmental instability.

Jennifer Hampton
Jennifer Hampton

A seasoned gaming enthusiast with over a decade of experience in online casinos, specializing in slot game analysis and player strategies.