Cameroon’s opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma has boldly declared himself the victor of the October 12 presidential election, urging President Paul Biya to recognize the results and respect the people’s choice. Speaking from his hometown of Garoua, Tchiroma affirmed, “Our victory is clear. It must be respected,” emphasizing the importance of the ballot’s integrity.
This declaration has heightened tensions in a political environment already characterized by significant divisions. The ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), under Biya’s leadership, dismissed Tchiroma’s claims as a “grotesque hoax,” asserting that only the Constitutional Council holds the power to announce official election results. CPDM spokesperson Jacques Fame Ndongo condemned Tchiroma’s assertion as “inadmissible” in a nation governed by the rule of law.
Biya, who is 92 years old and has ruled for 43 years, is seeking an eighth term amid growing discontent regarding economic stagnation and security challenges. While political analysts predicted that Biya’s entrenched control over state institutions and the divided opposition would facilitate his re-election, Tchiroma has managed to rally considerable support from a coalition of diverse opposition parties and civic groups.
Tchiroma praised voters for their bravery in protecting their ballots despite facing intimidation. He expressed gratitude to his fellow candidates for their congratulatory gestures, positioning his supposed victory as a collective triumph: “This victory is not that of one man, nor of one party. It is the victory of a people,” he remarked.
In light of the escalating political climate, Tchiroma cautioned that the regime’s reaction would be crucial. He called on leaders to demonstrate “greatness” by accepting the election results to avoid potential unrest. According to electoral law, Tchiroma is expected to provide a detailed breakdown of vote tallies from polling stations, although the Constitutional Council is tasked with final validation of results by October 26.
Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji has issued stern warnings that any unilateral declaration of results could be considered “high treason,” highlighting the severity of the situation. With over 8 million registered voters, the outcome of this election may have lasting ramifications for Cameroon’s political landscape.
As Tchiroma stands firm in his assertions, the next few days are critical in determining whether Biya and his administration will pursue a path of negotiation or confrontation. The determination exhibited by the electorate during this election could serve as a pivotal moment leading to change in a country historically marked by dominant one-party governance.