Cameroon Opposition Leader Issa Tchiroma Flees to Gambia Amid Post-Election Unrest
Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a prominent opposition leader in Cameroon, has fled to The Gambia for his safety, the Gambian government confirmed Sunday, following weeks of post-election unrest in his home country.
Tchiroma Bakary, who is contesting the results of the 12 October presidential election, has consistently claimed he is the legitimate winner, alleging that the vote was rigged to secure an eighth term for President Paul Biya, 92, the world’s oldest sitting president.
Biya was officially declared the winner with 53.7% of the vote, while Tchiroma Bakary came second with 35.2%.
According to The Gambian Information Ministry, Tchiroma Bakary arrived in the country on 7 November and was granted temporary stay on humanitarian grounds, citing African solidarity and ensuring his safety as diplomatic efforts continue to address tensions in Cameroon.
The Gambian authorities emphasized that the country would not serve as a base for subversive activity against any state.
Cameroon’s government had threatened to put Tchiroma Bakary on trial for allegedly inciting violent post-election demonstrations, allegations the opposition leader has denied.
He has instead blamed security forces for the crackdown, which the government says killed 16 people, though other organizations report a higher toll.
Tchiroma Bakary has vowed to resist Biya’s government until his claimed electoral victory is recognised. His tactics have included calling for street protests and “ghost town” operations, aimed at bringing urban centres to a standstill.
Until The Gambian government’s confirmation, Tchiroma Bakary’s whereabouts had been speculated across the region, sparking uncertainty about his safety.
Reacting to the announcement, The Gambia’s main opposition, the United Democratic Party (UDP), criticised the government for delaying the disclosure of Tchiroma Bakary’s arrival, citing concerns over transparency and public accountability.
The party, however, welcomed that Tchiroma Bakary had found safe sanctuary, noting their awareness of how despotic regimes treat dissenters.
The BBC has reached out to the Cameroonian government for comment.
