Cameroon’s 92-year-old president, Paul Biya, has pledged to restore calm in the country after weeks of violent unrest following a disputed election. Sworn in for his eighth consecutive term, Biya, one of the world’s longest serving leaders, blamed “irresponsible politicians” for inciting the protests and assured citizens that “order will reign.”
The long time leader secured 54% of the vote, while his main rival, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, garnered 35% according to official results. Bakary rejected the outcome, claiming victory and accusing the authorities of massive fraud, allegations the government denies.
The disputed election results sparked nationwide protests that left at least 14 people dead and over 1,200 arrested, though rights groups suggest the toll is much higher. In his inauguration speech in Yaoundé, Biya praised security forces for containing the unrest but did not address claims of excessive force.
He urged citizens to move forward and focus on building a “united, stable, and prosperous” nation, promising to prioritize youth, women, and anti corruption reforms. Biya, who has ruled since 1982, faces growing criticism for his decades long grip on power and the worsening political and economic instability in Cameroon.
Before the swearing in, opposition strongholds such as Garoua and Douala were paralyzed by strikes called by Bakary, who has urged international sanctions against officials linked to the alleged electoral fraud. Despite multiple complaints being dismissed by the Constitutional Council, tensions remain high as many Cameroonians question the credibility of the vote and the future of their democracy.
