Hundreds of protesters flooded the streets of Douala, Cameroon’s economic hub, on Sunday following a nationwide call from opposition figure Issa Tchiroma Bakary. The demonstrators—predominantly young people—marched through major streets, demanding that authorities recognise Tchiroma’s claimed victory in the recent election and release the true results, which are expected to be officially announced on Monday.
According to local reports, the protests began peacefully but quickly spread across several neighbourhoods, including the densely populated New Bell area. Tensions rose sharply when police and anti-riot gendarmes allegedly opened fire to disperse the crowds. Witnesses reported that two people were shot, while several others sustained injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals, some in critical condition.
As news of the clashes spread, similar demonstrations broke out in other cities, including Garoua, Maroua, Meinganga, Kaélé, and Bertoua, signalling what many are describing as a nationwide movement demanding electoral transparency.
Observers warn that the situation remains fragile, with fears of further unrest as the electoral commission prepares to release the official results. Meanwhile, Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s supporters have urged calm but maintain that their calls for fairness, justice, and accountability must not be ignored.
Melissa Enoch
