YAOUNDÉ – Cameroon’s long-serving leader Paul Biya has been declared the winner of the recent presidential election, extending his more than four-decade rule despite opposition challenges and post-election unrest.
The 92-year-old president, recognized as the world’s oldest serving head of state, secured 53.66% of the vote according to the constitutional council’s official announcement. His main challenger, former ally Issa Tchiroma Bakary, received 35.19% of ballots cast.
The declaration follows two weeks of political uncertainty after the October 12 election, during which Tchiroma had earlier claimed victory based on his campaign’s internal tally showing him winning 54.8% of votes. His team had urged supporters to protest what they termed potential electoral manipulation.
Recent days have seen heightened tensions across several urban centers. Security forces clashed with opposition supporters in Douala, resulting in several fatalities. Additional demonstrations were reported in the capital Yaoundé, along with Bafoussam and Garoua, where Tchiroma maintains strong support.
The political climate remains charged, with Tchiroma alleging attempted security breaches at his residence in social media statements. His supporters had previously gathered outside his home, anticipating potential arrest.
Biya first assumed power in 1982 and has maintained firm control over the Central African nation since. Constitutional changes in 2008 removed term limits, paving the way for his continued tenure. The recent victory positions him to potentially remain in office until approaching 100 years of age, extending what has become one of Africa’s longest presidencies through periods of economic challenge and regional conflicts.
