News|ElectionsCameroon’s Issa Tchiroma Bakary claims presidential election victoryLeading opposition candidate unilaterally declares himself the victor, and calls on incumbent Paul Biya to concede.

Presidential Election Declaration by Issa Tchiroma Bakary

Issa Tchiroma Bakary, an opposition leader in Cameroon, has declared victory in the country's recent presidential election. This announcement was made via a video statement released on social media on Tuesday. Despite the absence of official results, Tchiroma has urged the incumbent President Paul Biya to concede.

The government has emphasized that only results declared by the Constitutional Council are deemed official. This body is responsible for announcing the final results and is expected to do so within two weeks. Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, has stated that any unofficial result declarations would constitute "high treason".

Tchiroma, formerly a government spokesman and ally of Biya, resigned in June to contest the elections. His campaign has garnered significant public support and endorsements from various opposition parties and civic groups. Despite these efforts, Biya, who has held power for 43 years, is anticipated to secure another term due to his control over the state apparatus and the fragmented opposition.

Cameroon's electoral law permits the publication of results at individual polling stations. However, final validation is required from the Constitutional Council, with a deadline set for Thu, Oct 26, 2025.

In his statement, Tchiroma called upon Biya to "honor the truth of the ballot box" by acknowledging the election outcome. He emphasized this as a demonstration of political maturity in Cameroon. Tchiroma described the results as "a clear sanction" of Biya's administration and a signal of a new era. He also expressed gratitude to rival candidates who have recognized his claim to victory and called on governmental and military institutions to support the republic.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.