Opposition Leader Declares Himself Winner Before Official Results
Cameroon’s political scene was thrown into turmoil on Tuesday as opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary unilaterally declared victory in the country’s presidential election, even before official results were announced.
In a five-minute video posted to social media, Tchiroma claimed that the “people have spoken”, urging 92-year-old President Paul Biya, Africa’s oldest serving leader, to accept defeat and congratulate him.
“The people have chosen, and this choice must be respected,” Tchiroma said, addressing the nation from his northern hometown of Garoua, standing before the Cameroonian flag.
The move immediately set the stage for a potential political standoff, as the Cameroon government has repeatedly warned that any premature declaration of results could be treated as a “high treason” offense.
Government Response: Only Constitutional Council Can Declare Results
While the government has yet to respond directly to Tchiroma’s announcement, Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji had cautioned earlier that only the Constitutional Council has the authority to release official results.
The Council, which has up to two weeks (until October 26) to validate and publish the final outcome, remains the only legally recognized electoral arbiter.
According to Cameroon’s electoral law, preliminary tallies can be posted at individual polling stations, but only the Council can certify the nationwide result.
“Any unilateral publication of results will be considered a serious violation of the law,” Atanga Nji warned last week.
Who Is Issa Tchiroma Bakary? From Biya Ally to Opposition Challenger
Tchiroma, leader of the Cameroon National Salvation Front (CNSF), was once a close ally and government spokesperson under President Biya. After serving for two decades in the ruling government, he resigned in June 2025, announcing his candidacy as part of a unified opposition coalition.
His campaign rallies drew massive crowds, particularly in northern and western Cameroon, tapping into growing discontent over economic hardship, corruption, and security concerns in the Anglophone regions.
Observers had labeled him the strongest opposition contender in years — though many analysts noted that Biya’s control over state institutions, media, and security forces made a genuine transfer of power unlikely.
Paul Biya: Africa’s Longest-Serving Leader Faces Mounting Pressure
President Paul Biya, in power since 1982, is seeking an unprecedented eighth term. At 92, he has become a symbol of both stability and stagnation in Cameroon’s political landscape.
Despite his advanced age and declining public visibility, Biya maintains tight control over the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) and key state institutions.
Critics accuse him of rigging elections, suppressing dissent, and limiting press freedom, while supporters credit him with maintaining national unity and development amid regional conflict.
This year’s election, however, came amid a backdrop of mounting frustration — especially in the Anglophone regions, where a separatist conflict has displaced tens of thousands and created widespread insecurity.
Tchiroma’s Victory Speech: ‘Honour the Truth of the Ballot Box’
In his video message, Tchiroma urged Biya to “honour the truth of the ballot box” and to “act as a statesman” by conceding defeat peacefully.
“The election results represent a clear sanction of your administration,” Tchiroma declared. “It marks the beginning of a new era for Cameroon — one of unity, transparency, and hope.”
He further claimed that “several rival candidates” had already called to congratulate him and recognize the will of the people.
Tchiroma also appealed directly to the military and state institutions, urging them to respect the “voice of the people” and remain loyal to the republic, not to individuals.
“Do not let anyone divert you from your mission to protect the people,” he said.
Government Reaction and Political Uncertainty
As of Tuesday evening, no official response had been issued by the presidency or the electoral commission regarding Tchiroma’s claims. However, political analysts warn that his declaration could heighten tensions in an already fragile environment.
“If the authorities perceive this as a provocation, they may react strongly,” said a regional political observer. “But if the opposition can back its claims with evidence from local tallies, it could shift the narrative.”
The African Union (AU) and United Nations have called for calm, urging all parties to respect legal procedures and await the official results.
Election Context: A Vote Amid Tensions and Low Trust
Sunday’s presidential vote was marked by low voter turnout in some regions, particularly in the Anglophone northwest and southwest, where armed separatists had threatened attacks on polling stations.
Despite government assurances of security, there were reports of intimidation, ballot irregularities, and logistical challenges across several districts.
Cameroon’s electoral body, Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), has not released preliminary figures but said the vote was conducted “in generally peaceful conditions.”
International observers, including the Carter Center and African Union mission, have yet to issue their final reports.
Possible Outcomes: Political Stalemate or Negotiated Transition?
Analysts suggest three potential scenarios following Tchiroma’s self-declaration:
- Biya Retains Power: The Constitutional Council validates a victory for Biya, consistent with past elections. Opposition protests could follow but would likely be suppressed.
- Disputed Results: A narrow margin or irregularities could fuel unrest and demands for recounts or mediation.
- Negotiated Power-Sharing: Under regional or international pressure, Biya and the opposition might reach an interim arrangement or “national dialogue” agreement.
“Cameroon’s future stability hinges on how both camps handle the next two weeks,” said political analyst Jean-Baptiste Mvondo. “A peaceful transition or transparent validation process could redefine the country’s democratic trajectory.”
What Comes Next
Until the Constitutional Council makes its official proclamation by October 26, Cameroon remains in a state of political suspense.
For now, Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s declaration has injected new momentum into the opposition — and raised questions about whether Africa’s oldest leader can continue to defy both age and growing calls for change.
“The will of the people cannot be silenced,” Tchiroma said. “Cameroon is ready for a new dawn.”
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