Cameroon’s Catholic Bishops have urged citizens to remain calm as tensions rise following opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s self-declaration as the winner of the October 12 presidential election. The country’s Constitutional Council has yet to release official results, fueling anxiety across the Central African nation.
Tchiroma, a 76-year-old former government spokesman, announced that he had defeated 92-year-old President Paul Biya, who has ruled Cameroon for 43 years and is seeking another seven-year term. His declaration was swiftly dismissed by government officials and members of Biya’s ruling party, who termed it “illegal” and “provocative.”
The Constitutional Council, which is responsible for verifying and announcing the final results, has until October 27 to declare the winner. However, Tchiroma’s defiance and vow to “defend his victory” have sparked fears of potential post-election violence.
In a statement released by the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (NECC), the Catholic Bishops emphasized the importance of peace, stability, and transparency. “We hope the official results will reflect the true will of the people, and that nothing will be altered by any authority involved in this exercise,” the statement read.
The Catholic Church holds significant moral authority in Cameroon, often serving as a voice of conscience. Several bishops have previously criticized Biya’s long rule. Earlier this year, Bishop Yaouda Hourgo of Yagoua made headlines after stating it would be “better for the devil to take power” than for Biya to seek re-election, reflecting growing frustration among citizens.
As protests over alleged electoral fraud spread, the Constitutional Council announced it would begin hearing complaints on Wednesday. The Church urged judges to uphold truth and justice in their deliberations, concluding its message with a powerful biblical reminder: “The truth shall set you free.”
The coming days will be critical for Cameroon, as the nation watches closely for the Council’s decision—and hopes peace prevails.
