Cameroonian Political Opposition Figure Faces Legal Proceedings Over Electoral Turmoil, Government Declares
Cameroon's Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji has stated that political opponent Issa Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over allegations that he provoked "aggressive post-election demonstrations".
A minimum of four protesters have been lost their lives during clashes between security forces and opposition supporters since the presidential election on October 12, with the 92-year-old head of state securing an eighth term in office.
The opposition leader asserts that he emerged victorious, a claim disputed by Biya's ruling party, the CPDM.
Forceful measures by police and security officers on demonstrators have concerned the global community, with the UN, AU and EU demanding caution.
Official's Allegations
On Tuesday, the interior minister accused Tchiroma Bakary of organising what he labeled "unlawful" protests causing the loss of lives, and also criticised him for claiming win in the election.
He added that the opposition leader's "associates behind an subversive plot" will also be prosecuted.
Election Results
Paul Biya, who assumed office in the early 80s and is now the world's oldest head of state, secured the October 12 presidential election with over half of the vote, compared to 35.2% for Tchiroma Bakary, according to the electoral authority.
Challenger's Position
The opposition figure is has not yet commented to the government's decision to try him, but he had before declared that he would not accept a rigged election - and that he was undaunted of being detained.
When results were announced, he said that security forces opened fire on protesters gathered near his residence in the city of Garoua, fatally wounding at least 2 civilians.
Probe Announced
Recently, the government official disclosed that an probe would be launched into violent incidents prior to and following the declaration of the vote outcome.
"During these attacks, some of the criminals died," he said, without offering a precise figure of protesters who have been killed in the clashes.
Nji noted that a number of members of the police and military also suffered major harm.
Current Situation
Although the interior minister maintained the condition nationwide was now manageable, demonstrators remain active in certain regions of the country, especially in urban centers, where demonstrators established roadblocks on Tuesday, and burnt rubber on the streets.
Analysts caution that the political turmoil could plunge the nation into a leadership vacuum.