Issa Tchiroma Bakary, Cameroonian opposition leader and runner up in last month’s presidential election, has fled to The Gambia after weeks of mounting pressure and violent unrest at home. The Gambian government said it was hosting him “temporarily” on humanitarian grounds as regional leaders look for a diplomatic way out of Cameroon’s post election crisis.
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Tchiroma arrived in Banjul on November 7, according to the Gambian information ministry. Officials said the decision to shelter him was “for the purpose of ensuring his safety” as his confrontation with President Paul Biya’s government intensified.
The October poll returned Paul Biya, 92, to power for an eighth term with 53.7 percent of the vote. Tchiroma secured 35.2 percent. He rejected the result almost immediately, alleging widespread manipulation. “This is not democracy. It is electoral theft, a constitutional coup as blatant as it is shameful,” he declared while insisting he was the real winner.
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His challenge quickly spread to the streets. Supporters held demonstrations and “ghost town” protests that paralysed some cities. The government accused him of inciting insurrection and threatened legal action. Authorities said 16 people were killed in clashes with security forces, while independent groups reported a higher toll.
Tchiroma denied encouraging violence and blamed the security agencies for heavy handed crackdowns. He has repeatedly said he will resist Biya’s government until what he calls his “victory” is recognised.
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With pressure escalating, The Gambia said it was working with partners including Nigeria to encourage a “peaceful and negotiated outcome” to Cameroon’s political standoff. For now,remains under the protection of President Adama Barrow’s government as the region watches closely for signs of a way forward.
