Cameroonian Opposition Figure to Face Legal Proceedings Over Election Unrest, Authorities Announces
The nation's Interior Minister the interior minister has stated that opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary will be prosecuted over claims that he incited "violent election protests".
A minimum of four protesters have been fatally wounded during skirmishes between security forces and protesters since the electoral process on October 12, with the 92-year-old head of state obtaining an eighth consecutive term.
Issa Tchiroma asserts that he emerged victorious, a statement disputed by Biya's ruling party, the ruling CPDM.
Forceful measures by police and security officers on demonstrators have concerned the international community, with the UN, African Union and European Union demanding restraint.
Minister's Claims
Recently, Nji charged the opposition figure of coordinating what he labeled "unauthorized" demonstrations resulting in the deaths, and also rebuked him for declaring victory in the election.
He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "associates responsible for an rebellious scheme" will also undergo judicial processes.
Vote Outcome
The president, who took control in 1982 and is now the most elderly national leader, secured the 12 October presidential election with 53.7% of the ballots, compared to just over a third for the challenger, according to the constitutional court.
Leader's Stance
Issa Tchiroma is yet to respond to the official announcement to try him, but he had previously stated that he rejected a fraudulent outcome - and that he was fearless of being detained.
On election result day, he said that gunmen shot on protesters gathered near his house in the city of Garoua, causing the death of at least 2 people.
Probe Launched
Recently, the interior minister revealed that an probe would be started into unrest before and after the declaration of the election results.
"During these attacks, some of the perpetrators died," he said, without offering a exact count of protesters who have been lost their lives in the confrontations.
The minister further mentioned that several members of the law enforcement also suffered significant wounds.
Ongoing Circumstances
Even though the interior minister asserted the state of affairs throughout Cameroon was now manageable, protesters remain active in various areas of the nation, especially in urban centers, where demonstrators mounted roadblocks on Tuesday, and set fire to tyres on the thoroughfares.
Observers warn that the political turmoil could lead the nation into a leadership vacuum.
