Tchiroma, a former minister, is contesting against incumbent President, Biya, who has been in power for over four decades.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Cameroon Opposition Candidate, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, has claimed election victory over incumbent President Paul Biya, who has been in power for over four decades.
His announcement came via a defiant Facebook post on Tuesday, despite the fact that official results for the weekend vote are not expected for two weeks.
“Our victory is clear. It must be respected,” Tchiroma declared in the social media post.
He urged the government to “accept the truth of the ballot box” or “plunge the country into turmoil” and promised to publish detailed results by region.
“The people have chosen,” he added.
The move echoes the 2018 election, when opposition figure Maurice Kamto similarly proclaimed victory ahead of official results.”
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He was subsequently arrested, and his supporters’ rallies were dispersed with tear gas and water cannon, leading to dozens of arrests.
While preliminary tally sheets may be shared publicly, Cameroon’s government has reiterated that only the Constitutional Council can declare the final outcome, a “red line that must not be crossed,” officials warned.
President Biya, now the world’s oldest serving head of state is seeking to extend his long 43-year tenure. However, Tchiroma, a former employment minister, has sparked unexpected enthusiasm among voters, leading to a fiercely contested race.
Supporters from both camps have circulated images of tally sheets and blackboards on social media, each claiming their candidate has secured the win.
The digital flurry has intensified speculation and heightened tensions as the nation awaits the official verdict
