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Biya, Paul

Cameroon's President Paul Biya Declared Winner in Controversial Election

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Cameroon's 92-year-old president, Paul Biya, has been declared the winner of the country's presidential election, despite widespread protests and allegations of electoral irregularities. The election, held on October 12, was marred by violence and intimidation, with at least four protesters killed and dozens arrested. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, received 53.66% of the vote, while his challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, secured 35.19%.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Constitutional Council announced Paul Biya as the winner of the presidential election, with 53.66% of the vote, while Issa Tchiroma Bakary received 35.19%.
  • At least four protesters were killed and dozens arrested in clashes with security forces ahead of the announcement.
  • The opposition has accused Biya of using "state machinery" to manipulate the election in his favor and has vowed to continue protests demanding credible results.
  • Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, has been accused of corruption, nepotism, and human rights abuses.
  • The election has sparked widespread protests and calls for change, with many young Cameroians feeling disillusioned with the current regime.
  • Cameroon has faced ongoing crises, including attacks by Boko Haram militants and a secessionist insurgency in the English-speaking North West and South West regions.
  • According to Samuel Dieudonne Ivaha Diboua, governor of the Littoral Region, at least 105 protesters were arrested.
  • Videos online showed protesters clashing with security forces, who fired tear gas and tried to disperse people barricading major roads in Douala and other cities.
  • Biya has been accused of using his time spent in Europe to govern from afar, leaving key decision-making to party officials and family members.

Statistics:

  • 92: The age of Cameroon's President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982.
  • 53.66%: The percentage of votes received by President Paul Biya in the presidential election.
  • 35.19%: The percentage of votes received by opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary.
  • 57.7%: The reported turnout in the presidential election.
  • 105: The number of protesters arrested according to Samuel Dieudonne Ivaha Diboua, governor of the Littoral Region.
  • 7,000: The estimated number of people killed in the ongoing secessionist insurgency in Cameroon's English-speaking North West and South West regions.

Sources:

  • AP (2025). "Cameroon's Top Court Declares President Winner Amid Protests".
  • World Bank (2022). "Unemployment Rate in Cameroon".
  • University of Buea (no date). "Dr. Emile Sunjo, Senior Lecturer in International Relations".

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