Cameroon Protests Turn Deadly As Tension Rises Before Poll Results

Tension is running high in Cameroon after at least four people were killed in violent protests across Douala and other cities, just days before the country’s election results are officially announced. The Cameroon protests erupted after opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary claimed victory in the October 12 presidential election, directly challenging President Paul Biya’s 43-year rule. The Cameroon protests quickly turned deadly as security forces clashed with demonstrators defying a government ban on gatherings, leaving the nation gripped by fear and uncertainty.

Governor Samuel Dieudonné Diboua confirmed the deaths, describing the Cameroon protests as “premeditated acts of violence” and warning of strict action against those responsible. Several police officers were injured after protesters attacked security posts in Douala. Despite the ban on demonstrations, hundreds of Tchiroma Bakary supporters flooded the streets, chanting “We want Tchiroma!” and holding signs demanding that their votes be respected. “We are not here for disorder — we’re demanding the truth of the ballot,” read one placard, as tear gas filled the air.

In the northern city of Garoua, a stronghold of Tchiroma Bakary, police fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds who accused the ruling CPDM party of trying to “steal the victory.” The Cameroon protests intensified after Tchiroma Bakary posted a video online declaring himself the “legal and legitimate president,” claiming he had won about 55% of the votes based on 80% of polling results collected by his team. His message ignited hope among his supporters but also deepened divisions across the country.

The opposition claims that the Cameroon election was marred by irregularities, including ballot-stuffing and intimidation at polling stations. However, the constitutional council — largely appointed by Biya — dismissed eight petitions challenging the results. Authorities have also banned all public gatherings until Monday, when the official results are expected. Still, Tchiroma Bakary’s supporters remain defiant, taking to the streets and calling for international support. Some protesters even carried banners urging world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, to intervene.

Tchiroma Bakary’s rise has been dramatic. Once a loyal minister under Biya, he served as Cameroon’s communications minister and government spokesperson from 2009 to 2019, defending the administration during crises like the Boko Haram insurgency. But in June 2025, the 76-year-old broke ranks, resigning and announcing his bid for the presidency, positioning himself as the face of change. Born in Garoua and trained as an engineer in France, Bakary’s political journey has been turbulent — he was jailed in 1984 for allegedly plotting to overthrow Biya, spending six years behind bars without conviction.

The ongoing Cameroon protests have now put the nation on edge. Streets in Douala and Garoua remain tense, with heavy police presence and reports of more planned demonstrations. Many fear that Monday’s result announcement could trigger another wave of unrest if the official results do not align with Tchiroma Bakary’s claims. International observers are closely watching the situation, warning that the crisis could spiral into a wider conflict if both sides refuse to back down.

For many Cameroonians, these protests are not just about one election — they are a cry for change after more than four decades under the same leadership. As one protester said, “We are here to claim our victory, for a new Cameroon, for everyone.