Cameroon Elections: Bishops call for calm after opposition declares victory

Cameroon’s influential Catholic Church has stepped into the political fray, calling for peace and stability after opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary declared himself the winner of the October 12 presidential election.

Tchiroma, a former government spokesman, claimed to have defeated 92-year-old President Paul Biya, who has ruled the country for over four decades and was seeking another seven-year term.

His announcement, made before the official results were released, sparked concern among citizens and officials alike, with fears mounting over potential unrest.

The government and Biya’s ruling party swiftly condemned Tchiroma’s declaration, labelling it illegal and premature.

Cameroon’s Constitutional Council, the body responsible for validating election results, has until Monday, October 27, to announce the official outcome.

In the meantime, the political atmosphere remains tense, with both camps holding firm to their positions.

Tchiroma has vowed to defend what he calls “the people’s victory,” raising the stakes in a country already grappling with regional conflicts and political divisions.

In response to the growing unease, the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (NECC) released a statement urging all parties to prioritise peace and national unity.

The bishops emphasised the importance of respecting legal procedures and avoiding inflammatory rhetoric that could incite violence.

Archbishop Andrew Fuanya Nkea of Bamenda, who also serves as NECC president, appealed to citizens to remain patient and trust in the democratic process, reminding them that the country’s stability must not be compromised.

The Church’s intervention reflects its longstanding role as a moral compass in Cameroonian society, especially during periods of political uncertainty.

With the final results still pending, the bishops’ message aims to soothe frayed nerves and prevent a descent into chaos.

As the nation awaits the Constitutional Council’s verdict, all eyes remain on the political leaders and their willingness to heed the call for calm and uphold the rule of law.