Cameroon on Edge Amid Protests Following Disputed Election
Paul Biya, the longtime president of Cameroon, was declared the winner of the recent presidential election, which opposition leaders claim was rigged. At 92 years old, he is the world’s oldest head of state and has been in power for over four decades. Many young people are demanding change.
Clashes and Accusations
Protests and violent clashes between security forces and demonstrators have erupted nationwide both before and after the vote. Opposition leaders and their supporters accuse Biya of rigging the election and blame his government for Cameroon’s ongoing problems.
“Cameroonians, who had long been afraid, find themselves saying 'this is too much', which is why young people who voted overwhelmingly for change find themselves forced to start a revolution,” said activist André Blaise Essama.
“When I look at the cities that are deserted on weekdays, I see it wasn’t a good idea for those in power, even after 43 years, to still believe that they can get away with it,” he added.
International Criticism and Casualties
The response of security forces, involving violent crackdowns on protests, has drawn widespread condemnation from the international community. Civil society groups report that since the weekend, at least 23 people have died and more than 200 have been detained.
“We’re simply asking the army to withdraw and stand behind us, because the strength of Cameroon is us, the youth, the people. It is the people who elect their president,” one protester declared.
Opposition's Resolve
Main opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has vowed to continue resisting until achieving “final victory” over Paul Biya.
Author's summary: Cameroon faces intense unrest as youth-led protests erupt over a disputed election, exposing decades-long frustrations under President Biya's lengthy rule.