The African Union (AU) has congratulated Cameroon’s 92-year-old President Paul Biya on securing an eighth term in office following the 12 October elections, while expressing concern over post-election violence that left at least four people dead.
AU Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf urged Cameroonian authorities to prioritize “inclusive national dialogue and consultation” with all political actors to promote unity and peace. The statement also condemned reports of repression, arrests, and the excessive use of force against protesters challenging the election outcome.
Cameroon’s government confirmed on Tuesday, October 28, the deaths but blamed opposition leader and former minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary for inciting unrest after claiming victory in the polls. Authorities accused his supporters of organising “violent demonstrations” that led to fires, looting, and clashes in cities such as Dschang, Ngon, Guider, and Garoua. Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji said several security officers were seriously injured, and investigations had been launched into the opposition’s actions, alleging that Tchiroma had committed offences punishable under Cameroonian law.
