Cameroon’s political tension has taken a sharp turn after opposition figure Issa Tchiroma Bakary of the Front for the National Salvation of Cameroon fled to The Gambia for safety following the country’s fiercely contested October presidential election. The Gambian authorities confirmed his arrival on November 7, describing the move as a humanitarian step taken to protect him while diplomatic efforts continue.
According to the Gambian government, Tchiroma’s entry was permitted “on humanitarian grounds” and “for the purpose of ensuring his safety while discussions continue to pursue a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the post-electoral tensions in Cameroon”. His escape comes amid unrest triggered by the re-election of Paul Biya, who has led Cameroon for more than four decades.
Biya, now serving an eighth term, secured 53.7 percent of the vote, based on official figures. Tchiroma followed with 35.2 percent but has firmly rejected the outcome. He insists the poll was marred by manipulation, declaring, “there are now two presidents — the president elected by the Cameroonian people (me) and the president appointed by the Constitutional Council (whom you know).”
The election period, and the weeks that followed, were marked by violent confrontations between security forces and opposition supporters. Several protesters reportedly lost their lives as demonstrations spread across key cities, raising questions about the government’s handling of dissent.
Tchiroma has consistently encouraged his supporters to stand against the announced results and has called for “dead city” protests — a form of civil resistance where businesses close and public activities halt. These actions have drawn the ire of the Cameroonian authorities, who now plan to initiate legal proceedings against him for what they describe as “repeated calls for insurrection.”
President Biya, aged 92 and recognised as the world’s oldest serving head of state, remains a dominant figure in Cameroon’s political landscape. Since the country gained independence from France in 1960, he is only the second person to occupy the presidency. Over the years, he has faced repeated criticism for his firm grip on power and his administration’s approach to political and armed opposition.
