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.

Mara, who served as prime minister from 2014 to 2015, was found guilty of “undermining state security” after publishing a post that accused Mali’s junta of curbing political rights and silencing dissent. His defense team argued that the post represented legitimate political expression and announced plans to appeal the verdict.

“This decision is politically motivated and represents a dangerous precedent for free speech in Mali,” said Mara’s lawyer, Boubacar Kone, following the sentencing.

The ruling comes amid growing concerns over shrinking civic space and crackdowns on opposition voices under Mali’s military government, which seized power in a 2021 coup.

International human rights organizations have repeatedly urged the transitional authorities to restore democratic governance and guarantee freedom of expression ahead of long-delayed elections.