Issa Tchiroma Bakary Rejects Alleged Vote Theft in Cameroon Election

In the northern city of Garoua, Issa Tchiroma Bakary has publicly rejected allegations of vote theft in the recent Cameroonian presidential election. He firmly stated that he urged his supporters to protect their votes, asserting, “We will never accept their votes being stolen by anyone.” Dressed in a striking white and gold tunic, Bakary expressed confidence in his victory.

Claims of Victory

Tchiroma Bakary, a former government minister, voiced his belief that he has already won the election. He claimed his victory with about 55% of the vote based on results gathered from roughly 80% of the electorate. “There is no doubt, no shadow of doubt whatsoever. My victory is undeniable,” he declared with a calm demeanor.

Challenges to the Ruling Party

Bakary criticized the ruling party, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), suggesting they were struggling to accept the election results. He challenged the party to disprove his allegations regarding the electoral process. “The law does not prevent us from declaring ourselves the winners,” he stated, defending his decision to proclaim victory.

Concerns Over Election Integrity

When questioned about potentially accepting defeat, Bakary noted he would only do so if the Constitutional Council confirms the results reflect legitimate ballot counts, not “ballot stuffing.”

Rising Tensions and Security Measures

In light of the delayed announcement of official election results, tensions have escalated in Cameroon. Fears of post-electoral violence are palpable, particularly in a nation grappling with a separatist conflict in the Anglophone regions and ongoing insurgency from Boko Haram in the Far North.

• Significant protests occurred earlier this week in Garoua, creating a climate of uncertainty.
• Security forces have increased their nighttime patrols, while daytime visibility has diminished.
• The influential Catholic Church in Cameroon has called for peace, urging that the results must faithfully represent the electorate’s will.

As the announcement of official results approaches, citizens remain hopeful, with the Catholic bishops emphasizing that “nothing will be changed by any authority involved in this exercise.” The future political landscape in Cameroon hangs in the balance as the country awaits clarity on the electoral outcome.