Cameroon Re-elects World’s Oldest President in Historic Vote
Cameroon has re-elected its long-standing president, Paul Biya, in a contentious election marked by violence and accusations of vote manipulation. At 92, Biya is acknowledged as the world’s oldest president, having held office since 1982. The election, which took place on October 12, was marked by significant unrest, especially in major cities like Douala, Garoua, and Maroua.
Election Results and Controversies
The final results, announced by the Constitutional Council, revealed that Paul Biya secured 53.66% of the votes cast. His opponent, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former ally turned challenger, garnered 35.19%. Despite Biya’s victory, Tchiroma claimed he had won based on results compiled by his party before the official count.
Violence and Public Unrest
The lead-up to the election was marred by violent clashes, resulting in the deaths of four protesters in Douala. Security forces confronted demonstrators demanding transparency and credible results. According to local officials, over 100 protesters were arrested during these confrontations. Videos circulating on social media depicted scenes of unrest, with security forces using tear gas to break up groups barricading major thoroughfares.
- Incident Reports:
- Four protesters killed in Douala.
- More than 100 arrested nationwide.
- Protesters accusing government of vote rigging.
Background on Cameroon
Cameroon, located at the crossroads of Western and Central Africa, has a diverse population of approximately 28.4 million people, as per the 2023 World Health Organization data. The nation has three primary linguistic groups: Bantu-speaking peoples in the south, Sudanic-speaking groups in the north, and Semi-Bantu speakers in the western region.
Before Paul Biya, Ahmadou Ahidjo served as the country’s first president from 1960 to 1982. Under Biya’s leadership, the opposition has voiced concerns regarding electoral integrity and state influence. Many opposition leaders and activists, including those supporting Tchiroma, have faced arrests in what is perceived as a crackdown on dissent.
Public Sentiment
Amid the unrest, voices within the youth population are increasingly frustrated with the status quo. Oumarou Bouba, a 27-year-old trader from Maroua, expressed his determination to support change, stating, “I voted for Tchiroma because I want change.” This sentiment captures the broader call for political reform and credible governance in the country.
As Cameroon moves forward, the implications of this latest election and the accompanying unrest continue to unfold, raising questions about the future of democracy and governance in the nation.
