Tensions have flared in Cameroon’s presidential election process after the party of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, the National Front for the Salvation of Cameroon (FSNC), withdrew from the national vote-counting Commission.
The incident occurred this week-end, as the commission continued its tally of the 12 October presidential election results. The FSNC representative accused officials of “blatant fraud” during the compilation of votes, particularly from the East and South-West regions, where voter turnout was reportedly abnormally high and results overwhelmingly favoured incumbent President Paul Biya. Witnesses said the FSNC representative walked out after raising strong objections but failed to present alternative tally sheets to substantiate the allegations.
Despite the withdrawal, the commission completed its work later the same day with all other candidates’ representatives present. The final provisional results will now be submitted to the Constitutional Council, which will handle any post-election disputes and appeals. Some opposition figures have called for the annulment of the entire vote, citing irregularities.
The Constitutional Council, the only body authorised to declare the outcome, is expected to announce the final results by Sunday, 26 October. The episode highlights growing tension and mistrust surrounding Cameroon’s electoral process, amid renewed scrutiny of President Biya’s decades-long rule.