Cameroon’s 92-year-old President Paul Biya has secured an eighth term, extending his 43-year rule, amidst widespread allegations of election fraud and deadly protests following the contested October ballot.
The nation’s Constitutional Council announced on October 27, 2025, that Biya had won the election with 53.7% of the vote. Opposition leader Issa Chiroma Bakary garnered 35.2%.
Biya, in a statement, thanked voters for their renewed trust. He expressed hope that “together we will resolutely work to build a peaceful, united, and prosperous Cameroon.”
Prior to the official results, Chiroma Bakary, a former ally of Biya, had claimed victory. However, the ruling Cameroonian People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) party rejected his assertion.
The election, held on October 12, was marred by violence that resulted in deaths. Hundreds of Chiroma Bakary’s supporters defied protest bans in several cities.
These demonstrations led to clashes with security forces. At least four people died on Sunday, October 26, during protests in Douala, the country’s economic capital.
Local governor Samuel Diedonné Diboua stated that police checkpoints in Douala were attacked, prompting security forces to act in self-defense.
Unrest continued on Monday, October 27, with several people shot dead near Chiroma Bakary’s residence in Garoua. The opposition leader posted on social media that civilians gathered outside his home were being fired upon.
He later claimed snipers were positioned at an opposite house, “shooting people at close range.”
The situation in the capital, Yaoundé, grew so tense that almost all shops and schools closed. Most civil servants and office workers were told to stay home.
Biya, who has governed Cameroon since 1982, is currently the world’s oldest sitting leader.
The Constitutional Council rejected at least 10 petitions alleging election fraud, clearing the path for Biya’s continued presidency.