Controversial Election Sees Paul Biya Secure Eighth Term as President of Cameroon

Wed Oct 29 2025 03:11:06 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Paul Biya, the world's oldest head of state, has won a contentious election, amid allegations of electoral malpractice and significant unrest in the country.

Paul Biya, aged 92, has been declared the winner of Cameroon's presidential election, securing 53.7% of the vote amidst accusations of electoral fraud and violent protests. The opposition leader, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, claims he won, but the ruling party opposes this. Clashes in cities like Douala have resulted in deaths, with tensions remaining high as Biya's administration faces criticism over governance.

Cameroon's 92-year-old president has won a controversial eighth term, in a fiercely disputed election.

Paul Biya, who is the world's oldest head of state, won 53.7% of the vote, compared to the 35.2% of opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, the Constitutional Council declared.

Before the announcement, Tchiroma Bakary - a former Biya ally - insisted he had won the election, but the ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) dismissed his claim.

The election, held on 12 October, has been marred with deadly violence, and in recent days, hundreds of Tchiroma Bakary's supporters have defied protest bans in several cities, and clashed with security forces.

Biya thanked voters for once again trusting him. I sincerely hope that, together, we resolutely undertake to build a peaceful, united and prosperous Cameroon, he said in a statement.

However, the unrest continued, with reports of fatalities during protests in Douala and gunfire near Tchiroma Bakary's residence in Garoua. Local journalists reported civilians being targeted by snipers, and many shops and schools closed due to heightened tensions.

With a 58% voter turnout, ten candidates competed for the presidency but the atmosphere remains tense as allegations of electoral malpractice are rampant. The governing party has hailed Biya's victory, but analysts warn his mandate is shaky as widespread discontent grows over the country's economic and social conditions, including high unemployment rates and endemic corruption.

The situation in Cameroon continues to be precarious, with calls for national dialogue and mediation to prevent further escalation of violence and dissent.