At least four people have been killed in Cameroon’s commercial capital, Douala, as police clashed with opposition supporters protesting ahead of the official release of presidential election results, local authorities confirmed on Sunday.
The violence broke out after hundreds of demonstrators, backing opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma, took to the streets despite a government ban on public gatherings.
Tchiroma has claimed victory over President Paul Biya, who at 92 years old is seeking an unprecedented eighth term in office.
Protesters reportedly blocked roads, set tyres on fire, and hurled stones at security forces. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds.
The unrest follows partial results published by local outlets indicating a strong lead for Biya, one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982.
The government has dismissed the opposition’s allegations of electoral fraud, urging citizens to remain calm and await the official announcement from the Constitutional Council, expected on Monday.
Tensions remain high across the country as both domestic and international observers watch closely for signs of escalation following decades of political dominance by Biya’s ruling party.
