Cameroonian Opposition Leader to Face Legal Action Regarding Election Unrest, Authorities Says

Election Demonstration in Cameroon
Numerous in Cameroon express anger that the president has secured an eighth presidential term

The nation's Interior Minister the interior minister has announced that opposition leader Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over allegations that he instigated "violent electoral rallies".

At least 4 protesters have been lost their lives during clashes between security forces and protesters since Cameroon's election on October 12, with 92-year-old President Paul Biya winning an eighth presidential mandate.

The opposition leader insists that he emerged victorious, a statement dismissed by the governing party, the CPDM.

Violent crackdowns by security personnel on protesters have concerned the world leaders, with the UN, AU and European Union urging caution.

Official's Allegations

Earlier this week, Nji accused the opposition figure of planning what he described as "illegal" protests resulting in the loss of lives, and also rebuked him for claiming win in the election.

He noted that Tchiroma Bakary's "associates responsible for an rebellious scheme" will also be prosecuted.

Poll Figures

The president, who took control in 1982 and is now the world's oldest head of state, obtained the October 12 presidential election with a majority of the vote, compared to 35.2% for the challenger, according to the constitutional court.

Leader's Stance

Issa Tchiroma is has not yet commented to the authorities' move to prosecute him, but he had before stated that he would not accept a stolen vote - and that he was fearless of being arrested.

On election result day, he reported that armed men opened fire on protesters present near his house in the city of Garoua, causing the death of at least two individuals.

Investigation Announced

On Tuesday, the interior minister announced that an probe would be launched into violent incidents surrounding the publication of the election results.

"Throughout the violence, some of the perpetrators lost their lives," he commented, without giving a specific number of protesters who have been fatally injured in the incidents.

The minister noted that a number of members of the law enforcement also sustained serious injuries.

Present Conditions

While Nji asserted the condition throughout Cameroon was now under control, demonstrators remain active in certain regions of the country, especially in Douala and Garoua, where protesters set up barricades on that day, and ignited tyres on the thoroughfares.

Experts warn that the election-related unrest could lead the country into a governmental instability.

Nathan Stephens
Nathan Stephens

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