Deadly Protests Erupt Ahead of Cameroon Election Results
Yaoundé, Cameroon – Violent protests gripped Cameroon on Tuesday, leaving at least two people dead following clashes between security forces and opposition supporters, according to opposition leaders. Demonstrations erupted in Yaoundé and other major cities ahead of the highly anticipated release of presidential election results later this week.
Unrest and Clashes Spread Nationwide
Witnesses reported fierce confrontations as supporters of Maurice Kamto’s opposition party, the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), barricaded roads, burned tires, and demanded electoral transparency. Security forces responded with tear gas and, in some areas, live ammunition.
The CRM claims two protesters were shot dead by police in Bamenda, a Kamto stronghold. Authorities acknowledged “isolated incidents” but did not confirm fatalities.
Election Fraud Allegations Fuel Tensions
The October 9 presidential election, in which 89-year-old incumbent Paul Biya seeks a seventh term, has faced accusations of voter fraud, intimidation, and delayed vote transmissions. Kamto and international observers have called for an independent audit, but the ruling CPDM party dismissed the demand.
“We will not accept a rigged victory,” Kamto declared. “The streets will speak if the government ignores the people.”
Government Condemns Protests as “Chaos”
Cameroon’s government labeled the demonstrations “unnecessary chaos” and warned against further unrest. Communications Minister René Emmanuel Sadi stated that “destabilization attempts will face legal consequences.”
Security forces remain on high alert, with mass arrests reported in Douala and Yaoundé. Internet shutdowns—previously used during political crises—were also observed.
International Calls for Calm
The African Union (AU), United Nations, and U.S. Embassy urged restraint. Human Rights Watch criticized the alleged use of excessive force, demanding accountability for protester deaths.
What Comes Next?
With results due by October 22, fears grow of a repeat of 2018’s deadly post-election violence. The crisis also risks inflaming Cameroon’s ongoing Anglophone separatist conflict, threatening deeper instability.
As the nation awaits the outcome, tensions remain high in what could be a pivotal moment for Cameroon’s political future.
(This is a developing story. Follow NextMinuteNews for updates.)
