Cameroonian Opposition Figure to Face Legal Proceedings Concerning Election Unrest, Government Says
Cameroon's Minister of the Interior the interior minister has announced that political opponent Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over allegations that he instigated "violent post-election demonstrations".
A minimum of 4 protesters have been fatally wounded during skirmishes between security forces and demonstrators since the electoral process on 12 October, with the 92-year-old head of state securing an eighth consecutive term.
The opposition leader maintains that he won the election, a claim dismissed by the incumbent party, the ruling CPDM.
Violent crackdowns by security personnel on protesters have worried the global community, with the United Nations, AU and European Union calling for moderation.
Minister's Allegations
Recently, Nji charged the opposition figure of coordinating what he labeled "unlawful" rallies leading to the deaths, and also criticised him for announcing success in the election.
He noted that Tchiroma Bakary's "co-conspirators involved in an rebellious scheme" will also be prosecuted.
Election Results
Paul Biya, who took control in 1982 and is now the oldest serving president, secured the 12 October election with 53.7% of the votes, compared to a significant minority for his opponent, according to the electoral authority.
Challenger's Position
Issa Tchiroma is has not yet commented to the authorities' move to prosecute him, but he had earlier stated that he rejected a fraudulent outcome - and that he was not afraid of being detained.
On election result day, he said that gunmen opened fire on demonstrators gathered near his home in Garoua, fatally wounding at least two civilians.
Probe Announced
Recently, the government official disclosed that an inquiry would be initiated into clashes prior to and following the publication of the election results.
"During these attacks, some of the criminals were killed," he stated, without providing a exact count of demonstrators who have been fatally injured in the clashes.
The minister further mentioned that a number of officers of the security forces also sustained major harm.
Present Conditions
While the interior minister asserted the situation throughout Cameroon was now stable, protesters remain active in certain regions of the country, especially in urban centers, where protesters mounted barricades on Tuesday, and ignited tyres on the roads.
Analysts warn that the election-related unrest could push the country into a leadership vacuum.
