Cameroon Opposition Figure Confronts Legal Action Over Post-Election Violence, Authorities Says
The nation's Minister of the Interior Paul Atanga Nji has announced that opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over accusations that he instigated "aggressive election protests".
At least 4 demonstrators have been lost their lives during confrontations between law enforcement and demonstrators since Cameroon's election on 12 October, with 92-year-old President Paul Biya obtaining an eighth term in office.
Tchiroma Bakary maintains that he won the election, a statement rejected by the governing party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).
Violent crackdowns by security personnel on protesters have worried the global community, with the United Nations, African Union and European Union urging moderation.
Official's Claims
Earlier this week, Nji alleged the opposition figure of planning what he labeled "illegal" protests leading to the loss of lives, and also rebuked him for declaring victory in the presidential race.
He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "associates responsible for an rebellious scheme" will also undergo judicial processes.
Election Results
Cameroon's leader, who took control in the early 80s and is now the most elderly national leader, secured the October 12 election with 53.7% of the ballots, compared to just over a third for Tchiroma Bakary, according to the constitutional court.
Leader's Stance
The opposition figure is has not yet commented to the government's decision to bring him to court, but he had before stated that he refused to acknowledge a fraudulent outcome - and that he was undaunted of being detained.
On election result day, he reported that security forces used lethal force on protesters assembled near his home in the city of Garoua, killing at least two civilians.
Probe Revealed
Earlier this week, the government official announced that an probe would be launched into violent incidents prior to and following the declaration of the poll figures.
"Throughout the violence, some of the criminals died," he commented, without giving a specific number of demonstrators who have been fatally injured in the confrontations.
The minister noted that multiple personnel of the security forces also suffered major harm.
Ongoing Circumstances
Even though the interior minister asserted the situation throughout Cameroon was now stable, protesters continue to protest in some parts of the country, especially in Douala and Garoua, where demonstrators mounted roadblocks on Tuesday, and burnt tyres on the thoroughfares.
Analysts caution that the election-related unrest could push the country into a leadership vacuum.