Tensions are running high in Cameroon as security forces have detained several opposition figures and activists ahead of Monday’s official announcement of the presidential election results.
According to local media reports, partial tallies indicate President Paul Biya may be leading, sparking widespread protests in major cities and prompting a heavy security presence nationwide.
Opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma’s campaign team confirmed that about 30 politicians and activists had been arrested in recent days.
Among those detained are leader of the MANIDEM party, Anicet Ekane and a senior member of the Union for Change movement, Djeukam Tchameni—both outspoken supporters of Tchiroma’s campaign.
Tchiroma’s team condemned the arrests, describing them as part of a government effort to stifle dissent and preempt post-election demonstrations.
The detentions come after a week marked by violent clashes between protesters and security forces in several urban centers.
In a reaction, Tchiroma called for nationwide demonstrations to begin on Sunday at 14:00 GMT, urging supporters to defend what he claims is his electoral victory.
At a press conference on Saturday, Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji confirmed that arrests had been made in connection with what he termed an “insurrectional movement.”
However, he declined to disclose names or provide an exact number of those detained.
Tchiroma, a former minister and once a close ally of President Biya, has declared himself the winner of the October 12 election, vowing not to recognize any other outcome.
With official results expected on Monday, observers warn that the country could face further unrest if the credibility of the electoral process is disputed.
