Cameroon’s government on Tuesday admitted that people had died during protests over the disputed re-election of 92-year-old President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest head of state.
Authorities blamed opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary for the deaths, accusing him of inciting unrest after claiming victory in the 12 October polls.
Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji said “illegal demonstrations” had caused loss of life and property damage, without specifying casualty numbers.
He accused Tchiroma’s supporters of organising “violent demonstrations” that led to fires, looting, and destruction across several cities including Dschang, Ngon, Guider, and Garoua.
“During these criminal attacks, some of the attackers lost their lives,” Nji told reporters, adding that an investigation had been launched against the opposition leader.
Security forces reportedly suffered injuries in clashes, while videos circulating online suggest further casualties since Monday, though officials have not confirmed these claims.
Witnesses described fear and paralysis in affected areas, with one resident in Garoua saying, “Violence could erupt at any moment. We hope things will calm down.”
The African Union condemned the government’s response while congratulating Biya, expressing concern over “violence, repression and arrests” linked to the election results.
The European Union voiced “deep concern” over what it called the violent repression of protests and urged the immediate release of detainees.
It also deplored “the death by firearm of a number of civilians” and called for restraint from all sides to avoid further bloodshed.
Biya, who has ruled since 1982, remains a deeply divisive figure, accused of silencing dissent as Cameroonians grapple with poverty, regional conflict, and decades of authoritarian rule.
The latest unrest underscores growing anger in a nation where calls for change have long met with repression and uncertainty.
