Cameroon Opposition Figure to Face Legal Action Regarding Post-Election Violence, Government Declares
The nation's Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji has declared that political opponent Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over accusations that he instigated "aggressive election protests".
No fewer than 4 demonstrators have been lost their lives during skirmishes between police and military and protesters since Cameroon's election on 12 October, with 92-year-old President Paul Biya obtaining an eighth consecutive term.
Issa Tchiroma insists that he was the true winner, a statement disputed by Biya's ruling party, the CPDM.
Aggressive responses by security personnel on protesters have concerned the international community, with the United Nations, African Union and European Union urging restraint.
Official's Claims
Earlier this week, the interior minister accused Tchiroma Bakary of planning what he referred to as "illegal" rallies leading to the loss of lives, and also rebuked him for declaring victory in the election.
He added that the opposition leader's "co-conspirators involved in an insurrectionary plan" will also face legal action.
Election Results
Cameroon's leader, who came to power in the early 80s and is now the world's oldest head of state, won the 12 October vote with over half of the vote, compared to just over a third for Tchiroma Bakary, according to Cameroon's Constitutional Council.
Leader's Stance
Tchiroma Bakary is has not yet commented to the official announcement to prosecute him, but he had earlier stated that he rejected a stolen vote - and that he was fearless of being taken into custody.
On election result day, he said that armed men shot on demonstrators present near his house in Garoua, killing at least two individuals.
Investigation Announced
On Tuesday, the government official revealed that an inquiry would be started into unrest prior to and following the declaration of the poll figures.
"During these attacks, some of the perpetrators were killed," he said, without giving a precise figure of protesters who have been killed in the incidents.
The minister further mentioned that a number of officers of the law enforcement also suffered major harm.
Current Situation
While Nji insisted the situation across the country was now manageable, demonstrators continue to protest in certain regions of the nation, especially in these two cities, where protesters mounted barricades on that day, and burnt tires on the streets.
Experts warn that the political turmoil could push the country into a political crisis.
