Cameroonian Opposition Leader to Face Court Action Over Electoral Turmoil, Authorities Announces
Cameroon's Interior Minister the interior minister has stated that political opponent Issa Tchiroma Bakary will be prosecuted over allegations that he provoked "aggressive post-election demonstrations".
At least four demonstrators have been fatally wounded during skirmishes between police and military and protesters since Cameroon's election on 12 October, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 securing an eighth term in office.
Issa Tchiroma maintains that he won the election, a claim rejected by Biya's ruling party, the CPDM.
Violent crackdowns by security personnel on demonstrators have concerned the world leaders, with the UN, African Union and EU demanding moderation.
Official's Claims
Earlier this week, Nji accused the opposition figure of coordinating what he referred to as "illegal" protests leading to the loss of lives, and also rebuked him for claiming win in the electoral contest.
He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "associates involved in an rebellious scheme" will also be prosecuted.
Election Results
Paul Biya, who assumed office in 1982 and is now the oldest serving president, won the 12 October election with 53.7% of the votes, compared to 35.2% for his opponent, according to the electoral authority.
Challenger's Position
The opposition figure is has not yet commented to the authorities' move to try him, but he had before stated that he would not accept a rigged election - and that he was undaunted of being taken into custody.
When results were announced, he claimed that gunmen shot on protesters present near his house in the city of Garoua, causing the death of at least two civilians.
Probe Launched
Recently, the government official disclosed that an inquiry would be launched into clashes before and after the announcement of the poll figures.
"During these attacks, some of the criminals were killed," he commented, without offering a precise figure of demonstrators who have been fatally injured in the confrontations.
The minister noted that several personnel of the law enforcement also sustained serious injuries.
Ongoing Circumstances
Although Nji asserted the state of affairs throughout Cameroon was now manageable, protesters remain active in certain regions of the country, especially in urban centers, where demonstrators set up obstructions on Tuesday, and set fire to rubber on the streets.
Experts warn that the post-electoral violence could push the nation into a political crisis.
