Cameroon opposition leaders arrested amid protests over presidential election

Two opposition leaders were arrested on Friday as protests erupted over Cameroon’s disputed presidential election, their parties said.

Anicet Ekane and Djeukam Tchameni, senior members of the Union for Change party backing candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, were taken in Douala, the country’s economic hub. Tchiroma claims victory in the October 12 election, saying his party’s results show he defeated President Paul Biya, who currently leads with 53% of the vote.

Meanwhile, the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM) reported that its treasurer and other members were “kidnapped” by local security forces, describing the arrests as an attempt “to intimidate Cameroonians.” Details remain unclear.

Cameroon’s election, held on October 12, saw 92-year-old incumbent Paul Biya seeking an unprecedented eighth term. Biya, the world’s oldest sitting head of state, has ruled since 1982, consolidating his control over the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) and state institutions. The Constitutional Council approved 12 candidates, but prominent opposition leader Maurice Kamto of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement was disqualified, limiting competition.

Approximately 8 million voters were registered, and the election used a single-round system: the candidate with the most votes wins, even without a majority. Votes were counted locally, transmitted regionally, and validated by the National Elections Observatory (ELECAM). Observers and opposition parties have questioned the transparency of the process, citing Biya’s influence over state institutions and media.

Key CPDM officials maintain close ties to Biya, including Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, Secretary-General of the Presidency, Jean Nkuete, Secretary-General of CPDM, and Hamadou Moustapha, Minister in charge of Special Duties. Analysts suggest Ngoh Ngoh holds significant influence over party affairs and potential succession. Most senior party figures are in their 70s, reflecting the dominance of Biya’s generation.

Biya’s advanced age and limited public appearances have raised questions about his health, though the government bans media discussion of it, citing national security. Despite this, Biya asserts he is fit to continue.

The opposition remains fragmented, facing harassment, legal obstacles, and disqualification of key figures. State-controlled media largely promotes Biya, while independent outlets operate under government scrutiny. Social media has become an important space for political debate, particularly among younger voters. The United States and France have expressed concerns over democracy and human rights, highlighting press restrictions and electoral irregularities.

Protests continued Saturday in Bafoussam, the West Region capital, where motorcyclists blocked major roads demanding a fair election. Earlier clashes with security forces resulted in arrests and at least one death: 30-year-old teacher Zairatou Hassana was killed in Garoua while checking on her sister. Her uncle said her death left a lasting negative impression of the regime.

On Friday, Tchiroma warned on Facebook that any attempt to arrest him would be “an assault against the entire Cameroonian people,” adding, “The people are simply asking you to recognise their victory.”