Four Dead in Cameroon as Protests Escalate Awaiting Election Results
Clashes in Cameroon have led to at least four fatalities in Douala, the country’s largest city. The unrest occurred as police confronted opposition supporters ahead of presidential election results. This escalation follows allegations of election rigging by President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982.
Protests Erupt in Douala Amid Election Controversy
On Sunday, hundreds of supporters of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma defied a protest ban, resulting in violent confrontations with law enforcement. Tchiroma claims to have won 54.8 percent of the vote compared to Biya’s 31.3 percent, prompting his supporters to take to the streets.
- Location: Douala, Cameroon
- Date of Protests: October 21, 2025
- Confirmed Deaths: 4
- Reportedly Injured: Several police personnel
During the protests, demonstrators barricaded roads, set fires, and hurled projectiles at police forces. The police retaliated with tear gas and water cannons, leading to further violence. Regional governor Samuel Dieudonne Ivaha Diboua confirmed the fatalities and stated that several public property attacks had occurred.
Wider Unrest Across the Country
The situation has intensified across numerous cities, including the capital, Yaoundé. Protests also erupted in Tchiroma’s hometown and other regions such as Garoua, Maroua, and Bafang.
- Major Cities Participating in Protests:
- Yaoundé
- Garoua
- Maroua
- Bafang
- Bertoua
- Kousseri
- Yagoua
- Kaele
- Bafoussam
In Douala, journalist Blaise Eyong noted the frustration among youth, a demographic heavily affected by rising unemployment rates. Despite measures to disrupt communication, including internet blackouts, the determination of young protesters remains strong.
Government Response and Arrests
Authorities have taken measures to suppress dissent, with reports of around 30 activists and politicians being detained, including prominent opposition figures. The government has rejected allegations of vote tampering, urging citizens to await the official results from the Constitutional Council.
As Cameroon awaits the final election results, tensions remain high. With Biya set to potentially secure an eighth term, the political landscape is proving increasingly contentious.
