Cameroon Faces Widespread Protests and Violence Amid Disputed 2025 Election

The October 12, 2025 presidential election in Cameroon has sparked widespread unrest and allegations of fraud as 92-year-old incumbent President Paul Biya seeks an unprecedented eighth term after 43 years in power. Opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary declared himself the winner, rejecting official results and accusing authorities of vote rigging, prompting protests and clashes in major cities including Yaoundé and Garoua. Security forces responded with tear gas and arrests, while the Constitutional Council dismissed all petitions challenging the election outcome, heightening tensions and fears of post-electoral violence. Accusations of electoral violations such as ballot stuffing, falsified reports, and intimidation of poll monitors have been reported, with some opposition members facing charges of incitement. The political crisis reflects deep frustration among Cameroon's youth and opposition over the entrenched rule of Biya, who remains one of Africa's longest-serving leaders. As the nation awaits the official verdict, the risk of escalating instability looms amid demands for transparency and democratic change.