Tension escalated in Cameroon on Sunday as at least four people were shot dead during opposition-led protests in Douala, the nation’s commercial capital.
The violence broke out after supporters of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary took to the streets demanding that the results of the October 12 presidential election be respected.
Tchiroma, who is challenging long-serving President Paul Biya, called for peaceful demonstrations ahead of the official results scheduled for release on Monday.
His campaign team confirmed that four people were killed by gunfire during the protests.
Witnesses reported that police fired teargas and live bullets to disperse crowds defying a government ban on public gatherings.
Security forces had earlier warned against any demonstrations before the Constitutional Council’s announcement.
The government said such actions could endanger public safety and “create conditions for a security crisis.”
Protesters in Douala were seen waving flags and chanting “Tchiroma 2025” as they marched through the city’s main streets.
Many accused authorities of manipulating the vote to extend Biya’s decades-long rule.
Tchiroma’s campaign condemned the killings, calling them “a tragic attack on democracy.”
The statement urged the international community to intervene and ensure transparency in the election process.
President Biya, 92, has ruled Cameroon for more than 43 years and is widely expected to secure another term.
Critics say his administration has maintained power through intimidation, electoral manipulation, and control of state institutions.
Meanwhile, heavy police presence was reported in Yaoundé and Garoua, where smaller protests were also dispersed. Human rights groups have expressed concern over the government’s handling of dissent.
The opposition maintains that it will continue to push for what it calls the “true will of the people” to be recognized once the results are announced.
