Cameroonian Opposition Leader to Face Legal Proceedings Regarding Post-Election Violence, Authorities Announces

Election Demonstration in Cameroon
Many in Cameroon show outrage over the fact that the president has secured an eighth consecutive term

The nation's Interior Minister the interior minister has stated that opposition leader Tchiroma Bakary will be prosecuted over allegations that he incited "aggressive election protests".

A minimum of 4 demonstrators have been lost their lives during skirmishes between police and military and protesters since the presidential election on 12 October, with the 92-year-old head of state winning an eighth term in office.

The opposition leader asserts that he was the true winner, a assertion disputed by the incumbent party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).

Aggressive responses by security personnel on demonstrators have worried the global community, with the United Nations, African Union and European Union urging caution.

Minister's Claims

Earlier this week, Nji accused Tchiroma Bakary of organising what he referred to as "unauthorized" protests leading to the deaths, and also condemned him for declaring victory in the election.

He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "accomplices involved in an subversive plot" will also face legal action.

Poll Figures

The president, who came to power in the early 80s and is now the oldest serving president, secured the 12 October vote with over half of the vote, compared to just over a third for the challenger, according to the electoral authority.

Leader's Stance

Issa Tchiroma is has not yet commented to the official announcement to prosecute him, but he had before declared that he would not accept a rigged election - and that he was fearless of being arrested.

On election result day, he claimed that gunmen used lethal force on protesters present near his residence in the city of Garoua, causing the death of at least two civilians.

Investigation Revealed

Earlier this week, the interior minister announced that an probe would be initiated into clashes surrounding the announcement of the poll figures.

"In the course of these incidents, some of the criminals lost their lives," he said, without providing a specific number of protesters who have been killed in the confrontations.

Nji added that a number of officers of the law enforcement also received major harm.

Present Conditions

Even though Nji maintained the situation nationwide was now under control, demonstrators continue to protest in some parts of the country, especially in urban centers, where demonstrators set up barricades on Tuesday, and ignited rubber on the thoroughfares.

Analysts warn that the election-related unrest could push the nation into a governmental instability.

Jared Jenkins
Jared Jenkins

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