At least four people have been killed in Cameroon’s economic hub, Douala, following violent clashes between security forces and protesters demanding transparency in the country’s presidential election. The unrest erupted as the nation awaits the official results of the 12 October vote, which opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary insists he won against incumbent President Paul Biya.
Regional governor Samuel Dieudonné Diboua confirmed the deaths, saying police stations had been attacked and officers forced to defend themselves. “Four people unfortunately lost their lives,” Diboua said, describing the protests as “premeditated acts of violence” and a threat to national security. He added that investigations have been launched to identify those responsible for inciting the unrest.
The demonstrations, held despite an official ban, drew hundreds of Tchiroma Bakary’s supporters to the streets of Douala, Garoua, and other major cities. Protesters carried banners reading “We are demanding the truth of the ballot,” and chanted slogans in support of the opposition leader. In Garoua Bakary’s political stronghold security forces fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds after initially peaceful demonstrations turned chaotic.
The opposition accuses the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) of plotting to “steal the victory” from Bakary, who has declared himself the rightful winner. Meanwhile, authorities have prohibited public gatherings until Monday, when the Constitutional Council is expected to announce the official results.
“We are here to claim our victory,” said one protester. “We are making a peaceful march, which is a civil right for all Cameroonians.”
President Biya, who has ruled Cameroon for 43 years, faces growing pressure amid claims of electoral fraud and a frustrated population demanding democratic reform. As the country braces for the official declaration, tensions remain high, with fears of further violence if the opposition’s demands for transparency go unanswered.
