TURBULENCE AND THE TENUOUS HOLD ON POWER IN CAMEROON

In the wake of the official declaration that Paul Biya has secured another term as President of Cameroon, the country is facing mounting unrest, deep scepticism over the electoral process, and fears of political instability. At age 92, Biya—already the world’s oldest serving head of state—is set to extend his four-decade rule for another seven years, a development that has sparked outrage and renewed calls for change across the nation.

OFFICIAL RESULTS AND OPPOSITION REJECTION

On October 27, 2025, Cameroon’s Constitutional Council formally declared President Paul Biya the winner of the presidential election held on October 12. Official results show Biya with 53.66% of the vote, ahead of opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35.19%. However, the opposition swiftly rejected the outcome, claiming widespread electoral fraud, intimidation, and manipulation of results.

Tchiroma, once a minister under Biya before breaking away to form the Union for Change, declared himself the true winner, claiming over 54% of the vote. His party has labelled the election a “political masquerade,” accusing the ruling elite of undermining democracy. The opposition’s call for nationwide protests has since escalated into widespread unrest.

HOTSPOTS OF UNREST AND VIOLENCE

Violence erupted in several major cities following the announcement of results.

In Douala, Cameroon’s commercial hub, angry youths took to the streets, blocking roads, burning tyres, and clashing with security forces. The New Bell and Bonabéri neighbourhoods became scenes of chaos as gunfire echoed through the air. At least four people were reported dead, with dozens injured as anti-riot police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters.

In Garoua, the hometown of opposition leader Tchiroma, security tensions flared as armed forces surrounded his residence. Sporadic gunfire was heard, and two people reportedly lost their lives in the ensuing confrontation. The northern city remains heavily guarded as authorities attempt to contain the unrest.

The capital city, Yaoundé, has also witnessed sporadic protests. Heavy security patrols have been stationed around key areas such as Mokolo, Tsinga, and Melen, while several businesses shut down amid fears of violence. Although the demonstrations there have been largely contained, the tension remains palpable.

UNDERLYING CAUSES OF THE CRISIS

Cameroon’s current turmoil is rooted in decades of political stagnation and growing frustration over Biya’s long rule. Having been in power since 1982, Biya’s continued leadership—bolstered by the removal of term limits in 2008—has raised serious questions about democratic legitimacy. Many citizens see the recent election as yet another manipulation of power to maintain the status quo.

Socioeconomic inequality and regional division have further deepened the crisis. The Anglophone regions of the Northwest and Southwest continue to suffer from years of separatist conflict, while the Far North faces persistent poverty and insecurity. These conditions have eroded public trust and made protests more combustible.

Adding to the tension is the government’s response. Dozens of opposition leaders and activists were detained in Douala and Yaoundé before and after the election. Human rights groups have condemned the crackdown, warning that heavy-handed security tactics could further inflame public anger.

THE ROAD AHEAD

With the protests intensifying, analysts warn that Cameroon is entering a period of potential instability. The government faces pressure both domestically and internationally to restore calm and ensure transparency. Western governments and regional bodies have called for dialogue and restraint, urging the authorities to release detained protesters and allow independent investigations into the election process.

However, Biya’s government has shown little sign of compromise. Security forces remain deployed across major cities, and communication restrictions have been reported in certain areas to prevent protest coordination.

As Cameroon stands at this critical juncture, the question remains whether the ruling elite will pursue reconciliation or continue to rely on repression to maintain control. What is clear is that the country’s unity and democratic future now hang in the balance, and the coming weeks will determine whether calm or chaos defines this new chapter of Biya’s extended rule.