Cameroon's Pivotal Election Sparks Nationwide Unrest

Cameroon's president, Paul Biya, the world's oldest serving leader, has clinched an eighth term in office, extending his long-standing rule. The election results revealed Biya obtained 53.66% of the vote, leaving former ally and opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary trailing with 35.19%, according to the Constitutional Council.

The announcement has provoked a volatile response across the nation, with Issa Tchiroma asserting his victory amid reports of violent outbreaks near his home. Despite the unrest, Cameroon's government has yet to address these allegations, remaining steadfast in their rejection of claims suggesting electoral irregularities.

Amidst heightened tensions, anti-riot police were deployed to the streets of Yaounde, with the capital largely shut down. Protests have erupted in key cities like Douala, where police clashes with opposition supporters have intensified, casting a shadow over the country's political future as demands for national mediation grow louder.