Cameroonian opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who is contesting the outcome of the presidential election, has fled to The Gambia for his safety, according to the Gambian government.
Tchiroma Bakary asserts he is the legitimate winner of the October 12 election, alleging that the results were manipulated to secure President Paul Biya's eighth term. The Gambian information ministry confirmed that Bakary arrived on November 7 and has been granted temporary stay under humanitarian grounds.
The Cameroonian government has threatened legal action against Tchiroma Bakary, accusing him of encouraging violent protests following the elections—a charge he vehemently denies, instead blaming security forces for the unrest.
While the authorities report that 16 individuals lost their lives during the unrest, independent organizations estimate a much higher death toll. Tchiroma Bakary has vowed to continue resisting Biya's government until his electoral victory is acknowledged.
President Biya, who has held power for 43 years and is the oldest sitting president globally, was declared the winner with 53.7% of the vote, amidst accusations of substantial electoral fraud. Tchiroma Bakary, his main rival, received 35.2%.
Following his flight to The Gambia, speculation about his whereabouts spread until the Gambian government confirmed his presence, emphasizing that his asylum is strictly for humanitarian reasons and does not serve as a base for political agitation against Cameroon.
The presence of Bakary in The Gambia has sparked discussions on transparency and governance, as the Gambia's main opposition party criticized the government for delaying the announcement of his entry.
Despite the criticism, the UDP expressed pride in offering Tchiroma Bakary sanctuary, recognizing the severe threats faced by dissenters in authoritarian regimes.
