Cameroon Awaits Results as Tensions Ease

As Cameroonians await the official presidential election results, a tense calm hangs over the nation, with both anticipation and anxiety shaping the post-election mood.

News Central TV correspondent Kathleen Ndongmo described the atmosphere as “a mix, a blend of concern, optimism and at times helplessness” as citizens await the Constitutional Council’s declaration of the final outcome.

In Garoua, the stronghold of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, calm has returned following election day tensions that saw clashes between security forces and supporters. The Union for Change, a coalition of over 50 opposition parties and civil society groups, has declared Bakary the winner based on its own “parallel vote count.”

According to the coalition, Bakary “secured wide margins in urban centers such as Yaoundé and Douala and an even stronger lead in the north.”

Other opposition figures have also spoken out. Akere Muna called the election “a new dawn,” saying Cameroonians had “spoken with a voice that is clear, resounding and undeniable,” urging the government to “honour what he called a sacred duty.”

Hiram Iyodi said his party would “align with the will of the people,” while Ateki Setakaxton, who previously endorsed rival candidate Belobuba Maigari, congratulated Bakary for what he termed “a commanding performance.” He appealed to all sides for “calm and responsibility.”

However, ruling party supporters have circulated their own results sheets suggesting victories for the incumbent, deepening the confusion. Some citizens have begun questioning whether the government’s warnings against publishing preliminary results will be applied equally to all.

Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji cautioned the public “against the spread of fake or unofficial election figures,” stressing that “only the Constitutional Council has the authority to proclaim results.” He warned that those sharing unverified data could face legal consequences.

The National Communication Council also urged journalists and social media users to “refrain from posting unofficial results,” reinforcing the government’s message.

Despite the uncertainty, election observers have praised Cameroonians for conducting what they described as “a mature election process”, highlighting a higher voter turnout and renewed civic engagement.

Candidates now have 72 hours from the close of polls to file petitions challenging the results before the Constitutional Council. As Ndongmo concluded, “whether these elections will trigger a wave of legal challenges remains to be seen.”