Cameroon’s opposition leader, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, has declared victory in the presidential election, claiming to have defeated long-serving President Paul Biya, who has been in power for 43 years.
Despite official results not being expected for another two weeks, Tchiroma asserted his win on Facebook, stating, “Our victory is clear. It must be respected.”
He urged the government to acknowledge the outcome, warning of potential turmoil if they fail to do so.
Bakary declared victory despite no official results, citing “the people have chosen”.
The government cautioned that only the Constitutional Council can announce final results, labeling unilateral declarations “high treason”.
A similar declaration by opposition candidate Maurice Kamto in 2018 led to his arrest and violent dispersal of his supporters.
Tchiroma’s campaign generated unexpected enthusiasm, positioning him as a strong challenger to Biya, who’s seeking an eighth term.
Images of tally sheets and blackboards displaying vote counts have fueled victory claims from both camps on social media.
