Cameroon Opposition Leader Faces Legal Action Regarding Post-Election Violence, Authorities Announces
Cameroon's Interior Minister the interior minister has announced that political opponent Issa Tchiroma Bakary will undergo legal proceedings over claims that he instigated "violent electoral rallies".
No fewer than 4 protesters have been killed during clashes between security forces and opposition supporters since the electoral process on October 12, with the 92-year-old head of state winning an eighth consecutive term.
Tchiroma Bakary insists that he emerged victorious, a assertion rejected by Biya's ruling party, the CPDM.
Aggressive responses by police and security officers on demonstrators have alarmed the international community, with the United Nations, African Union and EU urging moderation.
Minister's Accusations
Recently, the interior minister alleged the opposition figure of coordinating what he described as "illegal" demonstrations leading to the loss of lives, and also rebuked him for claiming win in the electoral contest.
He further stated that Tchiroma Bakary's "associates responsible for an insurrectionary plan" will also face legal action.
Poll Figures
Cameroon's leader, who took control in the early 80s and is now the most elderly national leader, secured the 12 October election with 53.7% of the ballots, compared to a significant minority for his opponent, according to the electoral authority.
Opposition Response
The opposition figure is yet to respond to the government's decision to bring him to court, but he had previously stated that he would not accept a stolen vote - and that he was not afraid of being arrested.
Following the vote count, he claimed that gunmen opened fire on demonstrators present near his home in Garoua, killing at least 2 individuals.
Probe Announced
Recently, the government official revealed that an inquiry would be initiated into violent incidents prior to and following the publication of the poll figures.
"Throughout the violence, some of the criminals died," he commented, without providing a specific number of protesters who have been lost their lives in the clashes.
Nji added that several officers of the security forces also received significant wounds.
Present Conditions
Although the interior minister asserted the state of affairs across the country was now stable, protesters continue to protest in certain regions of the country, especially in Douala and Garoua, where protesters mounted roadblocks on Tuesday, and set fire to tyres on the thoroughfares.
Experts warn that the political turmoil could lead the country into a political crisis.