Cameroon’s government has announced plans to take opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary to court over allegations of inciting violent protests following the country’s presidential election.
The move comes after Bakary claimed victory in the October 12 election, despite official results showing President Paul Biya won with 53.7% of the vote.
Biya, who has been in power since 1982 and is now 92 years old, secured an eighth consecutive term.
The opposition’s protests turned violent, resulting in at least four deaths and numerous injuries.
Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji accused Bakary of organizing “illegal” protests that led to loss of life and criticized him for declaring victory prematurely.
Nji also warned that Bakary’s accomplices would face legal action.
The international community has expressed concern over the violence, with the UN, African Union, and EU calling for restraint.
The situation remains tense, with protesters still active in some parts of the country. Analysts warn that the post-electoral violence could plunge Cameroon into a political crisis.
