Cameroonian Political Opposition Leader Faces Legal Action Over Post-Election Violence, Authorities Announces
The nation's Minister of the Interior the interior minister has announced that opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over claims that he incited "violent electoral rallies".
No fewer than 4 demonstrators have been killed during confrontations between law enforcement and demonstrators since the presidential election on October 12, with 92-year-old President Paul Biya obtaining an eighth consecutive term.
Issa Tchiroma insists that he emerged victorious, a assertion dismissed by the governing party, the ruling CPDM.
Forceful measures by law enforcement on demonstrators have worried the global community, with the United Nations, AU and European Union urging moderation.
Official's Claims
Recently, Nji alleged Tchiroma Bakary of planning what he described as "illegal" rallies causing the fatalities, and also criticised him for declaring victory in the election.
He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "accomplices responsible for an rebellious scheme" will also undergo judicial processes.
Election Results
The president, who assumed office in the early 80s and is now the most elderly national leader, obtained the 12 October vote with a majority of the ballots, compared to 35.2% for his opponent, according to Cameroon's Constitutional Council.
Leader's Stance
Issa Tchiroma is yet to respond to the official announcement to prosecute him, but he had before announced that he would not accept a stolen vote - and that he was fearless of being taken into custody.
Following the vote count, he reported that armed men opened fire on demonstrators present near his residence in Garoua, fatally wounding at least 2 civilians.
Probe Launched
Recently, the interior minister disclosed that an inquiry would be started into violent incidents prior to and following the publication of the poll figures.
"During these attacks, some of the individuals involved died," he said, without providing a precise figure of demonstrators who have been lost their lives in the clashes.
Nji further mentioned that several members of the security forces also suffered major harm.
Ongoing Circumstances
Although Nji asserted the state of affairs nationwide was now under control, demonstrators remain active in certain regions of the country, especially in Douala and Garoua, where demonstrators mounted obstructions on that day, and burnt rubber on the thoroughfares.
Observers alert that the political turmoil could lead the nation into a political crisis.