Cameroonian Opposition Leader Confronts Legal Proceedings Concerning Post-Election Violence, Authorities Says
The nation's Interior Minister the interior minister has stated that opposition leader Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over allegations that he instigated "violent electoral rallies".
No fewer than four protesters have been lost their lives during skirmishes between security forces and protesters since the electoral process on October 12, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 winning an eighth consecutive term.
The opposition leader asserts that he was the true winner, a statement dismissed by the governing party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).
Aggressive responses by law enforcement on demonstrators have concerned the world leaders, with the United Nations, African Union and EU calling for restraint.
Official's Accusations
Recently, Nji alleged Tchiroma Bakary of coordinating what he described as "unauthorized" rallies leading to the fatalities, and also rebuked him for declaring victory in the election.
He noted that Tchiroma Bakary's "co-conspirators responsible for an rebellious scheme" will also be prosecuted.
Election Results
The president, who assumed office in the early 80s and is now the world's oldest head of state, won the October 12 election with 53.7% of the votes, compared to 35.2% for the challenger, according to the electoral authority.
Opposition Response
Tchiroma Bakary is yet to respond to the official announcement to prosecute him, but he had previously announced that he rejected a rigged election - and that he was not afraid of being detained.
When results were announced, he claimed that armed men shot on protesters assembled near his home in Garoua, causing the death of at least two civilians.
Probe Launched
Recently, the interior minister revealed that an investigation would be started into violent incidents prior to and following the announcement of the vote outcome.
"During these attacks, some of the individuals involved lost their lives," he said, without providing a specific number of protesters who have been killed in the clashes.
The minister noted that multiple personnel of the law enforcement also received major harm.
Present Conditions
Although Nji asserted the state of affairs across the country was now stable, demonstrators continue to protest in various areas of the country, especially in Douala and Garoua, where protesters set up roadblocks on that day, and ignited tyres on the roads.
Observers warn that the political turmoil could lead the country into a governmental instability.
