Security forces fired tear gas and dispersed crowds in the capital, Yaoundé, as demonstrators took to the streets to reject the results announced by the country’s Constitutional Council. Witnesses reported that police targeted protesters wearing masks or attempting to conceal their faces, while normally busy streets were left deserted.

According to official results, Biya won 53.66% of the vote, defeating his former ally Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who received 35.19%. The outcome extends Biya’s rule for another seven years, potentially keeping him in power until he is nearly 100 years old.

Opposition supporters have alleged widespread irregularities and intimidation during the vote, claims the government has dismissed as unfounded. The election, marred by violence in parts of the country’s anglophone regions, has drawn concern from international observers who called for restraint and dialogue.

Biya, who first took office in 1982, has maintained tight control over the Central African nation for more than four decades. His continued leadership has long sparked debate over governance, succession, and democratic freedoms in Cameroon.

Protesters barricaded roads, burned tyres, and chanted slogans accusing the government of electoral fraud, prompting a heavy security response. Police deployed teargas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators supporting opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma, who claims victory over long serving President Paul Biya in the October 12 vote.

Opposition Disputes Vote Count

Tchiroma’s supporters allege that vote-rigging is underway to secure yet another term for Biya, who at 92 years old has ruled Cameroon since 1982, making him one of the world’s longest serving leaders.

“We will not accept stolen results,” said one protester in Douala. “The people have spoken, and the government must respect our vote.”

Partial tallies published by local media suggest Biya is on course to win, though opposition figures insist their own parallel vote counts show Tchiroma leading.

Government Response

Authorities have rejected claims of manipulation, urging citizens to remain calm and wait for the official results from the National Elections Commission (ELECAM).

Government spokespersons accused opposition leaders of “inciting unrest” and warned that security forces would act to maintain order. Meanwhile, independent observers have called for transparency in the tabulation process to preserve public confidence in the outcome.

Tense Political Climate

The protests underscore growing political tension in a country that has faced years of unrest, particularly in its Anglophone regions, where separatist movements continue to challenge central government authority.

Analysts say the outcome of this election could either stabilize the political landscape or spark renewed confrontation if opposition supporters reject the official results.

As the nation awaits the final announcement, the situation remains volatile, with reports of heightened security in major cities including Yaoundé, Douala, and Bafoussam

Lesotho’s Prime Minister, Sam Matekane, welcomed the EU delegation and hailed the partnership as a major step forward in strengthening ties and boosting development cooperation. The programmes, part of a broader EU support strategy, are expected to focus on governance, economic development, and sustainable growth.

The EU’s involvement underscores its commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Lesotho and supporting strategic initiatives that benefit the Basotho people. Officials say the funding will target areas essential to Lesotho’s national development agenda.

The event also served as a platform to reaffirm the shared values of democracy, peace, and mutual respect between the EU and Lesotho. More details about the specific sectors and implementation timelines are expected to follow in the coming weeks.