Cameroon Opposition Leader Faces Legal Action Amid Post-Election Unrest

Thu Oct 30 2025 08:48:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Issa Tchiroma Bakary, the opposition leader in Cameroon, is set to confront legal action following allegations of instigating violent protests after the recent presidential election, which saw President Paul Biya secure his eighth term.

Following the controversial election on October 12, 2025, which resulted in President Paul Biya's victory, opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary faces legal charges. Allegations suggest he has incited protests that have resulted in violence, leading to multiple fatalities. While the government moves against him, observers are concerned about potential political instability in Cameroon.

Cameroon's Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji announced that opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action for allegedly inciting violent post-election demonstrations. This follows a tumultuous election on October 12, which resulted in 92-year-old President Paul Biya being declared the winner for an eighth consecutive term.

Since the election results were announced, at least four people have died in clashes between security forces and protesters. Tchiroma Bakary has vehemently claimed victory, a statement categorically denied by Biya's ruling party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).

The UN, African Union, and EU have expressed concern over violent crackdowns by authorities on peaceful protesters. On Tuesday, Minister Nji condemned Tchiroma Bakary, accusing him of orchestrating illegal demonstrations resulting in tragic loss of life and criticized his declaration of victory.

The legal actions do not stop with Bakary; Nji has indicated that other individuals deemed complicit in an alleged insurrectionary effort will also face consequences. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, purportedly won the election with 53.7% of the votes compared to 35.2% for Bakary, according to the Constitutional Council.

Bakary has yet to comment on the government's legal threats but has previously stated he would not acknowledge a 'stolen vote' and showed readiness to face arrest if necessary. He has reported that armed individuals fired upon his supporters during protests, with civilian casualties resulting.

An investigation is set to be launched regarding violence that erupted before and subsequent to the election results. Nji disclosed that some militants died during the disturbances, though specific details on casualties among protesters were scarce. Despite assertions that the situation is under control, unrest persists in cities like Douala and Garoua, where demonstrators erected roadblocks and burned tires.

Experts caution that the escalating post-electoral violence may lead to a deeper political crisis within the nation.