Cameroon Election: Protests Turn Deadly After Biya Declared Winner.

In the recent presidential election in Cameroon, long-standing leader Paul Biya was declared the winner, reaffirming his hold on power after decades in office. While the official results have been announced, the aftermath has been marked by widespread protests, some of which turned violent and deadly.

Background

Paul Biya, who has been Cameroon’s president since 1982, is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. His tenure has been characterized by efforts to maintain political stability, economic development, and national unity. However, critics argue that his leadership has also been marred by allegations of electoral manipulation, suppression of dissent, and limited political freedoms.

The Election and its Controversies

The election process itself was met with skepticism by opposition parties and civil society organizations. Many questioned the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. Despite these concerns, official results declared Biya the winner with a significant majority.

Why Did the Protests Break Out?

In the wake of the announcement, protests erupted across various regions, particularly in anglophone and opposition strongholds. The reasons for the protests include:

Allegations of Electoral Fraud: Many citizens and opposition groups believe the election was rigged to favor Biya, undermining the democratic process.

Long-standing Grievances: Regions that feel