Political tensions are rising in Cameroon, where the National Vote Counting Commission has declared President Paul Biya the provisional winner of last week’s presidential election.

According to the Commission’s figures, Biya secured just over 53 percent of the vote, ahead of his main challenger Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who trailed with roughly 35 percent.

But those results are already under fierce dispute.

Just two days after polls closed, opposition leader Issa Tchiroma proclaimed victory, insisting that his own vote tallies place him at around 60 percent.
He accused electoral authorities of manipulating figures and called for “full transparency” in the counting process.

In a statement, Tchiroma said — “The people have made their choice, and that choice must be respected.”

Meanwhile, the announcement of Biya’s provisional victory has sparked unrest across the country.
Demonstrations have erupted in several cities, including Yaoundé, Douala, and Bamenda, where protesters clashed with security forces amid allegations of electoral fraud.

Human-rights observers have urged calm and restraint on all sides as tensions threaten to escalate.

The Constitutional Council of Cameroon is expected to release the final, official election results by October 26th.
Until then, both camps remain locked in a battle over legitimacy and credibility.

If the outcome is upheld, the 92-year-old Paul Biya would extend his 42-year rule, reinforcing his position as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.

At over four decades in power 1982 to 2025, Biya’s continued leadership has drawn both loyalty and frustration — with critics calling for democratic renewal and supporters praising his record of stability.

For now, Cameroon waits — anxiously — for the Constitutional Council’s final word.

We will keep following this story as it unfolds.

Reporting by Ehud Jones.