At least four people have lost their lives in Douala, Cameroon’s commercial capital, following violent clashes between police and opposition demonstrators ahead of the announcement of the presidential election results.
Gatekeepers News reports that on Sunday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets, erecting barricades and setting tyres ablaze as tensions mounted over the October 12 polls. Disturbances were also recorded near Douala Airport and in the New Bell district.
President Paul Biya, who has been in power for more than 40 years, is seeking another term in office. However, before the official declaration of results, opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma had already proclaimed himself the winner. He was however swiftly rejected by Biya’s ruling party.
Tchiroma alleged that he secured 54.8 percent of the votes, compared to Biya’s 31.3 percent, and urged citizens to resist any “falsified and distorted results” that may be released by the Constitutional Council.
Samuel Diboua, Governor of Littoral Region which covers Douala, confirmed the deaths, stating that police facilities were attacked during the unrest.
He said, “Four people unfortunately lost their lives”, adding that security personnel only acted in self-defense.
The Constitutional Council is expected to declare the official results of the presidential election on Monday.
