Cameroon Opposition Figure to Face Legal Action Over Post-Election Violence, Government Declares
Cameroon's Minister of the Interior the interior minister has stated that opposition leader Tchiroma Bakary will be prosecuted over allegations that he incited "violent electoral rallies".
At least four demonstrators have been killed during clashes between police and military and demonstrators since Cameroon's election on October 12, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 obtaining an eighth presidential mandate.
Tchiroma Bakary maintains that he was the true winner, a statement rejected by Biya's ruling party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).
Forceful measures by police and security officers on protesters have concerned the world leaders, with the UN, AU and European Union demanding moderation.
Minister's Accusations
Recently, Nji charged the opposition figure of organising what he described as "unauthorized" demonstrations causing the deaths, and also rebuked him for claiming win in the electoral contest.
He added that the opposition leader's "accomplices involved in an insurrectionary plan" will also be prosecuted.
Election Results
The president, who assumed office in 1982 and is now the world's oldest head of state, won the October 12 election with a majority of the votes, compared to just over a third for his opponent, according to Cameroon's Constitutional Council.
Challenger's Position
The opposition figure is yet to respond to the authorities' move to bring him to court, but he had before stated that he rejected a rigged election - and that he was undaunted of being taken into custody.
When results were announced, he claimed that gunmen opened fire on demonstrators gathered near his residence in the city of Garoua, fatally wounding at least two individuals.
Inquiry Announced
Earlier this week, the government official disclosed that an inquiry would be launched into unrest before and after the declaration of the vote outcome.
"Throughout the violence, some of the individuals involved died," he said, without offering a exact count of protesters who have been killed in the incidents.
The minister further mentioned that a number of members of the security forces also sustained major harm.
Current Situation
Although Nji maintained the condition throughout Cameroon was now under control, protesters continue to protest in various areas of the country, especially in these two cities, where demonstrators mounted roadblocks on that day, and burnt tires on the thoroughfares.
Experts warn that the post-electoral violence could push the country into a leadership vacuum.