🔗 Share this article

The nation's Minister of the Interior Paul Atanga Nji has stated that political opponent Issa Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over accusations that he incited "aggressive election protests".

A minimum of 4 protesters have been fatally wounded during clashes between security forces and opposition supporters since Cameroon's election on October 12, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 obtaining an eighth presidential mandate.

Issa Tchiroma insists that he emerged victorious, a assertion disputed by Biya's ruling party, the ruling CPDM.

Violent crackdowns by security personnel on protesters have concerned the global community, with the UN, African Union and EU demanding moderation.

Minister's Claims

Earlier this week, Nji charged the opposition figure of planning what he labeled "illegal" protests leading to the loss of lives, and also condemned him for claiming win in the election.

He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "accomplices behind an rebellious scheme" will also undergo judicial processes.

Election Results

Paul Biya, who came to power in 1982 and is now the world's oldest head of state, obtained the October 12 presidential election with a majority of the ballots, compared to a significant minority for Tchiroma Bakary, according to the electoral authority.

Challenger's Position

The opposition figure is has not yet commented to the authorities' move to try him, but he had before declared that he would not accept a fraudulent outcome - and that he was fearless of being detained.

When results were announced, he said that armed men opened fire on protesters gathered near his home in Garoua, causing the death of at least two people.

Probe Revealed

Earlier this week, the interior minister disclosed that an inquiry would be launched into clashes surrounding the announcement of the election results.

"Throughout the violence, some of the criminals were killed," he commented, without giving a exact count of demonstrators who have been lost their lives in the incidents.

Nji further mentioned that several officers of the law enforcement also received significant wounds.

Present Conditions

While Nji maintained the condition across the country was now under control, demonstrators continue to protest in some parts of the country, especially in urban centers, where protesters set up roadblocks on that day, and ignited tires on the thoroughfares.

Observers alert that the post-electoral violence could push the nation into a political crisis.