Paul Biya Secures Eighth Term Amid Cameroon Unrest
Cameroon’s long-time leader, Paul Biya, has been re-elected for an unprecedented eighth term, extending his more than four-decade-long rule.
The 92-year-old politician – who is the world’s oldest serving head of state – won 53.7% of the vote, according to official results announced by the Constitutional Council on Monday, 27 October. His main challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, received 35.2%.
The outcome followed an election on 12 October, which was marred by accusations of electoral fraud and restricted opposition participation. Tchiroma, a former government minister, claimed victory days after the vote, asserting he had secured 54.8% of the ballots cast and urged supporters to resist what he called “falsified and distorted results.”
Violence has erupted across several cities, including Douala and Garoua, leaving at least four people dead, as security forces clash with protesters.
Biya, who has ruled the central African nation since 1982, abolished term limits in 2008 and has maintained power through a mix of political dominance and tight control over dissent.
Analysts warn that while his victory reinforces his grip on power, Cameroon’s political future remains uncertain, with growing calls for reform and dialogue, amid rising frustration over inequality and instability.
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