Cameroon Opposition Leader Faces Court Action Regarding Election Unrest, Authorities Declares
The nation's Minister of the Interior Paul Atanga Nji has declared that opposition leader Tchiroma Bakary will undergo legal proceedings over claims that he instigated "aggressive post-election demonstrations".
A minimum of four protesters have been fatally wounded during clashes between security forces and demonstrators since the electoral process on October 12, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 winning an eighth term in office.
The opposition leader insists that he was the true winner, a claim disputed by the governing party, the ruling CPDM.
Aggressive responses by security personnel on demonstrators have concerned the world leaders, with the United Nations, African Union and EU calling for caution.
Minister's Accusations
On Tuesday, Nji alleged Tchiroma Bakary of coordinating what he referred to as "unlawful" protests resulting in the loss of lives, and also criticised him for announcing success in the presidential race.
He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "co-conspirators behind an rebellious scheme" will also be prosecuted.
Election Results
Paul Biya, who took control in the early 80s and is now the most elderly national leader, won the October 12 vote with over half of the vote, compared to 35.2% for Tchiroma Bakary, according to the constitutional court.
Leader's Stance
Tchiroma Bakary is remains silent to the authorities' move to bring him to court, but he had earlier announced that he would not accept a stolen vote - and that he was not afraid of being arrested.
When results were announced, he reported that armed men shot on protesters present near his house in the city of Garoua, fatally wounding at least two individuals.
Investigation Revealed
Recently, the government official disclosed that an inquiry would be launched into clashes prior to and following the publication of the vote outcome.
"In the course of these incidents, some of the perpetrators were killed," he commented, without providing a specific number of demonstrators who have been killed in the confrontations.
Nji further mentioned that a number of members of the security forces also suffered serious injuries.
Ongoing Circumstances
While Nji insisted the condition across the country was now manageable, demonstrators continue to protest in various areas of the nation, especially in urban centers, where protesters mounted barricades on Tuesday, and burnt tyres on the roads.
Experts warn that the election-related unrest could lead the nation into a leadership vacuum.