Yaoundé, 15 October 2025 — Cameroon’s political landscape has been thrown into uncertainty following the October 12 presidential election, after opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary unilaterally declared himself the winner. In a video message released on Tuesday, Tchiroma urged President Paul Biya, who has ruled for more than four decades, to concede defeat, insisting that “the people have chosen, and this choice must be respected.”
The declaration has been met with caution by Cameroonian authorities. The country’s electoral commission and constitutional court have not yet released official results, and government officials issued a statement warning against premature claims of victory. They emphasized that only the designated institutions have the authority to certify the outcome.
Authorities Urge Patience
The Ministry of Territorial Administration reiterated that the official tallying process is ongoing, and results will be announced in accordance with the law. Officials cautioned that any attempt to pre-empt the process risks inflaming tensions in a country already grappling with political divisions and security challenges, particularly in its Anglophone regions.
Global Attention and Domestic Tensions
The election has drawn intense international scrutiny, with observers from the African Union, European Union, and United Nations calling for transparency and restraint. Analysts note that the stakes are high: Biya, at 92, is seeking another term after 43 years in power, while Tchiroma has positioned himself as the face of change for a younger generation.
Diplomatic missions in Yaoundé have urged calm, warning that any escalation could destabilize not only Cameroon but also the wider Central African region.
Outlook
With official results still pending, the situation remains fluid. The opposition’s claim of victory has energized supporters but also heightened the risk of confrontation. The coming days will be critical as the electoral commission finalizes its count and the constitutional court prepares to validate the outcome.
In summary: Cameroon’s election outcome remains unresolved. Opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has claimed victory, but authorities insist only official bodies can declare results. The global community is watching closely as the nation awaits clarity.
Yaounde-Cameroon-Skyline-Picture-by-Kateregga1
Sources: Al Jazeera, News24, Africanews, Le Monde Afrique.
