Cameroon Political Opposition Figure Confronts Legal Action Concerning Election Unrest, Government Says
The nation's Minister of the Interior the interior minister has announced that opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over allegations that he provoked "violent electoral rallies".
No fewer than four protesters have been killed during skirmishes between police and military and demonstrators since the electoral process on October 12, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 winning an eighth term in office.
Tchiroma Bakary insists that he emerged victorious, a statement disputed by Biya's ruling party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).
Forceful measures by police and security officers on protesters have concerned the global community, with the United Nations, AU and European Union demanding moderation.
Official's Accusations
Recently, the interior minister charged Tchiroma Bakary of coordinating what he referred to as "illegal" protests causing the loss of lives, and also rebuked him for declaring victory in the presidential race.
He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "associates behind an rebellious scheme" will also undergo judicial processes.
Vote Outcome
Paul Biya, who assumed office in the early 80s and is now the oldest serving president, obtained the 12 October election with over half of the votes, compared to 35.2% for Tchiroma Bakary, according to the constitutional court.
Opposition Response
Issa Tchiroma is yet to respond to the authorities' move to try him, but he had before stated that he refused to acknowledge a rigged election - and that he was undaunted of being taken into custody.
When results were announced, he reported that security forces used lethal force on demonstrators assembled near his home in Garoua, killing at least two individuals.
Inquiry Announced
Recently, the government official announced that an probe would be launched into unrest surrounding the publication of the poll figures.
"Throughout the violence, some of the criminals lost their lives," he stated, without offering a exact count of protesters who have been killed in the clashes.
Nji noted that a number of officers of the law enforcement also received significant wounds.
Current Situation
Although Nji insisted the state of affairs throughout Cameroon was now stable, protesters continue to protest in certain regions of the nation, especially in urban centers, where demonstrators established barricades on Tuesday, and ignited tyres on the streets.
Observers warn that the political turmoil could lead the nation into a governmental instability.
