The United Nations has raised alarm over escalating violence in Cameroon following contested presidential election results, urging restraint, accountability, and adherence to international human rights standards.
OHCHR Statement on Escalating Tensions
On 30 October 2025, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) expressed deep concern over the violent unrest that erupted in Cameroon after the Constitutional Council declared President Paul Biya the winner of the 12 October presidential election OHCHR.
The OHCHR urged Cameroon’s security forces to refrain from using lethal force against demonstrators and called on political leaders to avoid inciting violence or spreading hate speech. The agency emphasized the need for independent and impartial investigations into all incidents of election-related violence, including the reported use of excessive force OHCHR.
Principles Governing Use of Force
The UN reiterated that the use of force by law enforcement must comply with the Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms, which include:
- Necessity: Non-violent means must be exhausted before resorting to force.
- Proportionality: Any force used must match the level of threat posed.
- Precaution: Measures must be taken to minimize harm and injury.
These principles are designed to ensure that law enforcement actions remain lawful, measured, and protective of human rights.
Political Fallout and Public Unrest
Following the announcement of Biya’s victory on 17 October, opposition candidate Issa Tchirola Bakary rejected the results and declared himself the legitimate winner. He called for peaceful demonstrations, but protests quickly escalated into violent confrontations between citizens and security forces Human Rights Watch.
Human Rights Watch reported that at least four people were killed, dozens injured, and hundreds arrested in cities including Maroua and Douala, with video evidence showing police deploying tear gas and rubber bullets Human Rights Watch.
Broader Context of Instability
The post-election violence compounds Cameroon’s existing challenges, including a protracted armed conflict between government forces and separatist groups in the Anglophone regions. Both sides have been accused of serious human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and arbitrary detention.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres also issued a statement expressing deep concern over the loss of life, urging all parties to exercise restraint and uphold democratic principles press.un.org.
Conclusion
The UN’s call for restraint and accountability in Cameroon underscores the urgent need for de-escalation, lawful policing, and political dialogue. As tensions persist, international observers warn that failure to address the crisis could further destabilize a nation already burdened by conflict and human rights challenges.
Sources:
OHCHR OHCHR Press Release
press.un.org UN Secretary-General Statement
Human Rights Watch Human Rights Watch Report
