Cameroon's 92-year-old president, Paul Biya, has won a controversial eighth term in a fiercely disputed election held on October 12, 2025. Biya, the world's oldest head of state, was declared victorious with 53.7% of the vote, while opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former ally, garnered 35.2% according to the Constitutional Council.
The election has been marred by violence, with protests erupting across the country following the announcement of the winning results. Supporters of Tchiroma Bakary, who insist they were robbed of victory, clashed with security forces, leading to at least four deaths during unrest in Douala, the economic capital of Cameroon.
Biya has expressed gratitude to voters for their trust while calling for unity and peace in a statement. However, the atmosphere remains tense, with many residents in Yaoundé expressing discontent over the election outcome, fearing an escalation in political turmoil.
Voter turnout was reported at 58%, but numerous petitions alleging electoral misconduct have been dismissed by the Constitutional Council. Observers note that Biya's stay in power, which began in 1982, has increasingly faced scrutiny amidst a failing economy and rising levels of corruption.
With a backdrop of escalating conflict due to a separatist insurgency in English-speaking regions and discontent over economic hardships, political analysts warn that the claims of electoral theft may further destabilize a country once seen as a pillar of peace in Central Africa.
