Cameroon's President Paul Biya, 92, the world’s oldest sitting head of state, has secured re-election for an eighth term, according to official results announced by the Constitutional Council on Monday.
Biya won with 53.66% of the vote, while his rival, former government minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, came in second with 35.2%. Tchiroma had previously declared victory two days after the October 12 election, claiming his party had gathered results showing him ahead, but Biya dismissed these claims.
Biya, who has ruled the Central African nation since 1982, will now remain in power until 2032 following his re-election. The announcement of the results came a day after violent protests in Douala, the country's economic capital, where four protesters were killed and over 100 arrested. Demonstrators took to the streets in several cities, including Douala, Garoua, and Maroua, leading to clashes with security forces.
Governor Samuel Dieudonne Ivaha Diboua of the Littoral Region, which includes Douala, reported that several security officers were also injured during the protests. He added that at least 105 demonstrators were arrested.
Videos shared online showed protesters confronting security forces, who responded with tear gas and efforts to clear barricades on major roads. Dozens of opposition supporters, activists, and leaders were detained in the days leading up to the announcement. Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, stated that several individuals plotting violent acts had also been arrested.
The tense atmosphere ahead of the election, in a country of nearly 30 million people, reflected growing discontent among youth and opposition groups. Biya’s decision to seek another term, after nearly four decades in power, has sparked anger and protests, particularly among the younger population.