Violence erupted in Cameroon as clashes between security forces and protesters resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals. The unrest unfolded during demonstrations demanding credible results from the recent presidential election held on October 12, 2023. Local officials reported that over 100 protesters were detained in various regions as tensions escalated ahead of the anticipated announcement of election results.
Protests Erupt Amid Election Controversy
Supporters of the opposition candidate, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, took to the streets on Sunday, asserting that he had defeated incumbent President Paul Biya, who has led the country for over four decades. The protests were fueled by allegations of electoral fraud, with opposition groups claiming that government authorities manipulated the election process.
According to Samuel Dieudonne Ivaha Diboua, governor of the Littoral Region, which includes the economic hub of Douala, four protesters were killed during the clashes, and several members of the security forces sustained injuries. He confirmed that police stations were attacked by demonstrators, prompting a strong response from law enforcement.
The governor also mentioned that at least 105 individuals were arrested in Douala alone as a result of the unrest. Reports from the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy and local media indicated that two protesters were shot dead by security forces while attempting to disperse the crowds.
Rising Tensions and Arrests
Videos circulating online depicted intense confrontations, with security forces deploying tear gas to clear protesters who had barricaded major roads in Douala and other cities, including Garoua and Maroua in northern Cameroon. The unrest has already led to the arrest of numerous opposition supporters, activists, and leaders in recent days.
On Saturday, Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, stated that the government had detained individuals suspected of planning violent attacks amid the protests. The situation reflects a broader discontent among Cameroonians, particularly the youth, towards the long-standing administration of Biya, who is currently the world’s oldest leader at the age of 92.
One protester, Oumarou Bouba, a 27-year-old trader from Maroua, expressed his determination to fight for electoral integrity, stating, “I am ready to stake my life to defend my vote. I voted for Tchiroma because I want change.”
As the country awaits the constitutional council’s final election results, expected on Monday, the atmosphere remains charged with uncertainty and anger. Many citizens are demanding accountability and transparency in the electoral process, highlighting the ongoing struggle for democratic governance in a nation marked by political unrest.
