By Boris Esono Nwenfor
BUEA, Cameroon – Opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has strongly rejected the results of Cameroon’s October 12, 2025, presidential election, denouncing the Constitutional Council’s proclamation of President Paul Biya as “a fictitious victory” and “a dark chapter in the nation’s history.”
In a passionate address on his Facebook page on Tuesday, the former minister-turned-opposition candidate accused the Council of abandoning its constitutional mission, calling it “a partisan body and enemy of the sovereignty of the people.”
“Today, a dark chapter in our country’s history has come to an end. The Constitutional Council has just announced a truncated result awarding a fictitious victory to the outgoing president, Paul Biya,” Issa Tchiroma said
“The truth of the ballot is clear. The official report from our polling station compiled and secured by our representatives across the country demonstrates unequivocally that we won this election by a large majority.”
He paid tribute to protesters allegedly killed by security forces in recent days, saying their deaths would not be forgotten. Tchiroma urged his supporters to remain steadfast but peaceful as demonstrations continue nationwide. He also issued a call to the international community to take a clear position.
He said, “Their sacrifice will never be in vain. Their blood reminds us that freedom, justice, and dignity are worth more than fear and repression. People of Cameroon, you turned out in large numbers despite intimidation and threats. I thank you. This time, they will not stop us. We have already won. No falsified proclamation can erase the legitimacy given to us by the ballot box.”
“We demand an immediate end to the barbaric act, the killing, the arbitrary arrest, and the intimidation. Setting a country ablaze and drenched in blood to cling to power is not only a moral failing, it is a crime against the people and against humanity. I solemnly declare that the people will not back down.”
Tchiroma insisted that change in Cameroon will only come through the determination of its citizens. He said: “We will not yield to fear or to manipulation. We remain united, mobilised, and will continue to resist until final victory. As with our neighbours in 2010, legitimacy will triumph over instrumentalised legality.”
“Cameroonians must understand and remain convinced that no one will bring about this change for them because, once again, there is no dignity for those who expect everything from others. The founding father did it. Let us prove ourselves worthy of the legacy that they left us by rising to this challenge, regardless of its complexity and difficulties.”
Despite rising anger and continued clashes between protesters and security forces, Tchiroma urged calm. He said: “My dear compatriot, the time has come. Let us stand tall and strong, determined, but peaceful, for our strength lies in our unity, and no one can take our victory away from us.”
With political tensions intensifying following the disputed results, Tchiroma’s call adds to mounting voices rejecting the official outcome and demanding democratic accountability in Cameroon.
