Issa Tchiroma Bakary — a veteran politician and former minister — has declared himself the winner of Cameroon’s presidential election, signalling a dramatic contestation of the poll outcome and setting the stage for heightened political tension across the country. The claim was announced publicly after official results were yet to be universally accepted, with Tchiroma describing the vote as a decisive mandate for change and urging his supporters to remain peaceful while he pursues legal and political channels to consolidate his claim.
Tchiroma framed his claim as the culmination of months of campaigning and public frustration with the status quo, promising immediate steps to restore confidence in governance, address corruption and improve public services if his victory is recognised. He called on electoral authorities to publish transparent, verifiable results and invited international observers to verify the ballots and tally processes.
Security and diplomatic sources warn of a fragile period ahead: supporters of both the incumbent and opposition may mobilise, and authorities have reportedly increased deployments around key cities and election administration centres. Observers and regional actors are being urged to press for calm and to support transparent verification so that any dispute can be resolved without a breakdown in order.
