At least four people have been killed in Cameroon as violent protests broke out on Sunday ahead of the official announcement of the presidential election results.
Authorities confirmed that the fatalities occurred during clashes between police and demonstrators in several parts of the country.
Samuel Dieudonné Ivaha Diboua, the regional governor responsible for areas affected by the unrest, including Douala, reported that four people died during the disturbances.
“Four people, unfortunately, lost their lives,” Mr. Diboua stated, describing the unrest as “premeditated acts of violence.”
He added, “Investigations have been opened so that light can be shed on these unfortunate incidents.”
The demonstrations were sparked by supporters of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma, who declared himself the winner of the election. Protesters took to the streets in defiance of official procedures, calling for their candidate to be recognized.
The unrest spread rapidly across major cities, including Yaoundé, the capital, as well as Douala, Garoua, Maroua, Meiganga, Bafang, Bertoua, Kousseri, Yagoua, Kaele, and Bafoussam.
The October 12 election featured 92-year-old President Paul Biya, who is seeking an unprecedented eighth term in office. If successful, his victory would extend his more than four-decade rule over the Central African nation.
