At least four people have been killed in Cameroon’s economic capital, Douala, as protests erupted ahead of the official announcement of results from the country’s highly contested presidential election.
The regional governor, Samuel Dieudonné Diboua, confirmed the deaths, saying that several police posts had come under attack and that security forces acted in self-defense during the clashes.
Hundreds of supporters of opposition presidential candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary defied a government ban to stage demonstrations in several cities, including Douala and Yaoundé. Protesters demanded the recognition of what they claim is Bakary’s victory in the October 12 election.
Tchiroma Bakary has insisted that he won the poll, openly challenging President Paul Biya’s decades-long grip on power. Biya, who has ruled Cameroon for 43 years, is seeking another term amid growing public frustration over corruption, unemployment, and insecurity in parts of the country.
Witnesses reported heavy security presence in major cities, with police using tear gas and live rounds to disperse protesters. Shops and public transport were shut down in parts of Douala as tension mounted over fears of further unrest.
Authorities have urged calm as the electoral commission prepares to release the official results in the coming days. However, opposition groups have warned that any attempt to manipulate the outcome could trigger more widespread demonstrations.
Leave feedback about this