Regulation

Overview of Recent Developments in Cameroon’s Presidential Election

Following the presidential election held on Thu, Oct 12, 2023, in Cameroon, tensions have arisen in Douala, the country’s economic center. This is in response to opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s declaration of victory.

Security and Election Oversight

Increased security measures have been observed in the city, with evidence of unrest including spent tear gas canisters. The independent election oversight body and the constitutional court have not yet released official results, which are expected to be announced by Thu, Oct 26, 2023.

Candidate Background and Political Context

Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who previously served as a government spokesperson and minister under the current president, Paul Biya, announced his claimed victory via social media. He plans to release a detailed report on regional vote distributions soon. Tchiroma, supported by a coalition of opposition parties, is in his late seventies and left the government last year to pursue the presidency.

Paul Biya, aged 92, has served as Cameroon’s president since 1982, facing challenges such as a secessionist movement and corruption. His long tenure makes him the oldest serving president globally. The election featured eleven opposition candidates, though the opposition’s efforts were fragmented.

Historical Context

In the previous presidential election of 2018, opposition leader Maurice Kamto also claimed victory shortly after the polls, which led to his arrest and subsequent protests.