Paul Biya.webp
The Digest:

According to reports from Reuters and other international sources, at least four people were killed in Douala as police clashed with opposition protesters. The violence marks a dramatic escalation ahead of the official presidential result announcement, with Issa Tbiroma claiming victory and incumbent Paul Biya seeking to extend his four-decade rule.

Key Points:
  • Four fatalities confirmed in Cameroon's largest city, Douala, following violent clashes.
  • Opposition supporters barricaded roads and burned tires in protest ahead of the official results.
  • Unrest was also reported near Douala Airport and in the New Bell district.
  • Main opposition candidate Issa Tbiroma has preemptively claimed victory with 54.8% of the vote.
  • Tbiroma alleges Biya only garnered 31.3%, calling the results "falsified and distorted."
  • The regional governor stated police posts were attacked and security forces "defended themselves."
  • The Constitutional Council is set to announce the official results on Monday.
The streets of Douala have become a stark preview of the national turmoil that may follow, as a population's demand for change collides with the entrenched architecture of long-standing power.

Sources: Reuters, TheCable