Paul Biya Wins Again as Cameroon Erupts in Post-Election Protests

Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest serving ruler, has secured an eighth term in office, sparking nationwide outrage and violent protests across several cities. The 92-year-old leader’s victory, confirmed by election officials on Monday, extends his four-decade grip on power and could keep him in office until nearly 100.

Backers of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary flooded the streets of Douala, Cameroon’s commercial capital, blocking roads with burning tyres and debris while clashing with police. Security forces fired tear gas to disperse crowds as protesters, many covering their faces with masks or clothing, accused the government of rigging the October 12 election. The usually bustling streets of Douala fell silent as riot police patrolled deserted roads and shuttered businesses.

In a message on X, Biya expressed both gratitude and sorrow following his win. “My first thoughts are with all those who have unnecessarily lost their lives, as well as their families, as a result of the post-election violence,” he wrote. The government continues to reject all claims of electoral irregularities.

Why Are Cameroonians Protesting the Election Results?

According to official figures, Biya won 53.66% of the vote against Tchiroma’s 35.19%. But Tchiroma, who had already declared victory before the announcement, insists the results were manipulated. Over the weekend, four people were reported dead in Douala, and Tchiroma claimed two more civilians were killed outside his home in Garoua. “We all know that the majority of Cameroon’s people voted for Issa Tchiroma Bakary,” one protester told reporters.

Political analysts suggest Biya’s leadership is now under growing pressure. “Biya now has a notably shaky mandate given many of his own citizens don’t believe he won the election,” said Murithi Mutiga, Africa Program Director at the International Crisis Group. Oxford Economics’ Francois Conradie added that unrest is likely to intensify as Cameroonians “widely reject the official result.”

Could This Be the End of Biya’s Four-Decade Rule?

Biya has ruled Cameroon since 1982, removing term limits in 2008 to maintain control. His dominance mirrors a regional pattern, where aging presidents often lead countries with young populations. Neighboring leaders, such as those in Togo (86) and Ivory Coast (83), also represent this generational divide.

Opposition voices say Cameroonians are demanding change after years of economic stagnation in the oil- and cocoa-producing nation. Even Biya’s daughter, Brenda, briefly joined the chorus of dissent with a now-deleted TikTok post urging voters not to re-elect her father.

Tchiroma’s journey from Biya’s former government minister to opposition leader has reshaped Cameroon’s political landscape. His movement, backed by a coalition of civic groups and parties, has given frustrated citizens a new rallying point.

As protests continue, calls are growing for dialogue. “We call on Biya to urgently initiate a national mediation to prevent further escalation,” said Mutiga. Whether the long-serving president will respond or simply wait out the storm, remains to be seen.

By Yockshard Enyendi