Tensions flared in Douala, Cameroon’s economic capital, as activists and supporters of Maurice Kamto’s Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) clashed with security forces while attempting to reach the party’s regional headquarters.
Authorities had imposed restrictions, limiting access to parts of the city and the airport, in anticipation of Kamto’s arrival.
Kamto, a vocal challenger to President Paul Biya, released a video declaring he was being held under house arrest, with police preventing him from attending a meeting at his party’s headquarters.
The clash comes ahead of the October presidential election, which promises to be a pivotal moment in Cameroon’s history.
President Biya, Africa’s second-longest serving leader, is expected to run for an eighth term, while Kamto remains a strong contender.
The lead-up to the election has seen a surge in arbitrary arrests, political intimidation, and a ban on public demonstrations, fueling concerns over the fairness and transparency of the vote.
