Cameroon Opposition Figure to Face Legal Proceedings Concerning Post-Election Violence, Authorities Declares
The nation's Minister of the Interior Paul Atanga Nji has declared that opposition leader Tchiroma Bakary will undergo legal proceedings over allegations that he incited "aggressive post-election demonstrations".
At least 4 demonstrators have been fatally wounded during confrontations between law enforcement and opposition supporters since the presidential election on October 12, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 securing an eighth presidential mandate.
The opposition leader asserts that he won the election, a assertion disputed by Biya's ruling party, the ruling CPDM.
Violent crackdowns by police and security officers on demonstrators have concerned the world leaders, with the UN, African Union and EU demanding caution.
Official's Allegations
Recently, Nji charged the opposition figure of organising what he labeled "illegal" rallies resulting in the loss of lives, and also criticised him for announcing success in the election.
He noted that Tchiroma Bakary's "accomplices involved in an insurrectionary plan" will also face legal action.
Election Results
Cameroon's leader, who assumed office in the early 80s and is now the oldest serving president, obtained the 12 October vote with a majority of the ballots, compared to 35.2% for Tchiroma Bakary, according to the electoral authority.
Challenger's Position
Tchiroma Bakary is has not yet commented to the authorities' move to bring him to court, but he had before declared that he refused to acknowledge a rigged election - and that he was undaunted of being taken into custody.
When results were announced, he claimed that gunmen opened fire on demonstrators gathered near his home in Garoua, causing the death of at least 2 individuals.
Investigation Revealed
Earlier this week, the government official disclosed that an probe would be launched into clashes prior to and following the publication of the election results.
"In the course of these incidents, some of the perpetrators lost their lives," he said, without giving a specific number of demonstrators who have been lost their lives in the incidents.
Nji noted that a number of members of the security forces also suffered major harm.
Current Situation
While Nji asserted the condition throughout Cameroon was now under control, demonstrators are still demonstrating in various areas of the country, especially in urban centers, where demonstrators set up barricades on that day, and ignited tires on the thoroughfares.
Observers caution that the post-electoral violence could push the country into a leadership vacuum.