Cameroonian Political Opposition Figure Confronts Court Action Concerning Electoral Turmoil, Government Announces
The nation's Minister of the Interior the interior minister has stated that political opponent Issa Tchiroma Bakary will undergo legal proceedings over accusations that he instigated "violent electoral rallies".
No fewer than four protesters have been lost their lives during clashes between law enforcement and opposition supporters since Cameroon's election on October 12, with 92-year-old President Paul Biya obtaining an eighth presidential mandate.
Tchiroma Bakary asserts that he won the election, a assertion rejected by Biya's ruling party, the ruling CPDM.
Violent crackdowns by law enforcement on protesters have worried the international community, with the UN, AU and EU demanding moderation.
Minister's Allegations
Earlier this week, Nji accused the opposition figure of planning what he referred to as "unlawful" demonstrations resulting in the loss of lives, and also condemned him for declaring victory in the election.
He further stated that the opposition leader's "associates responsible for an rebellious scheme" will also be prosecuted.
Election Results
Cameroon's leader, who took control in the early 80s and is now the world's oldest head of state, secured the October 12 vote with over half of the ballots, compared to just over a third for Tchiroma Bakary, according to Cameroon's Constitutional Council.
Leader's Stance
Tchiroma Bakary is remains silent to the government's decision to bring him to court, but he had previously announced that he would not accept a fraudulent outcome - and that he was undaunted of being arrested.
When results were announced, he said that gunmen shot on protesters gathered near his house in the city of Garoua, causing the death of at least two civilians.
Investigation Announced
Recently, the interior minister announced that an investigation would be initiated into violent incidents surrounding the announcement of the vote outcome.
"During these attacks, some of the perpetrators died," he commented, without offering a specific number of demonstrators who have been killed in the incidents.
Nji noted that several officers of the law enforcement also received serious injuries.
Current Situation
Although the interior minister maintained the state of affairs nationwide was now manageable, protesters continue to protest in certain regions of the nation, especially in Douala and Garoua, where demonstrators mounted roadblocks on that day, and ignited tyres on the streets.
Observers warn that the post-electoral violence could lead the nation into a political crisis.