Tchiroma Calls for Nationwide Mobilization, Alleges Widespread Repression in Address to Cameroonians
By Wilson Musa
YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon — Opposition figure and self-declared President-elect Issa Tchiroma Bakary, has called for a nationwide mobilization against President Paul Biya’s government, accusing the administration of refusing to recognize what he described as the “truth of the ballot boxes” following the Oct. 12, 2025 presidential election.
In a video addressed to Cameroonians at home and abroad, Tchiroma alleged that eight months after the election, the government had failed to implement what he called the will of the people and instead intensified a campaign of arrests, intimidation, imprisonment and torture targeting political opponents and activists.
He cited the arrests and detention of several individuals, including Jacques Bertrand Mang, Mayor Joseph Espoir Biyon, Dieukam Tchameni, Parfait Mvoum, Lékumne Baba Kassim, Tchuwo Briss and Djiingi of Poli, claiming they were being persecuted for demanding electoral transparency. He further alleged that hundreds, or even thousands, of political prisoners were being held in prisons across the country under inhumane conditions.
“The regime has made Cameroon an open-air prison,” Tchiroma said, describing the current administration as repressive and accusing it of violating fundamental rights.
The opposition leader praised religious leaders who have spoken out on political issues, singling out members of the Christian clergy whom he said had called for the release of political prisoners. He urged all religious denominations to continue advocating for justice, respect for the popular vote and the protection of human rights.
Tchiroma also alleged that the government would intensify repression in an effort to remain in power, while urging Cameroonians to unite in what he described as a peaceful struggle to “liberate” the country.
Throughout the address, he made a series of allegations against President Biya’s administration, accusing it of corruption, economic mismanagement, illegal exploitation of natural resources and enriching a small political elite. He offered no evidence during the speech to substantiate the claims.
Referring to President Biya’s government as a “gangster regime” and “mafia regime,” Tchiroma alleged that the administration had ignored the outcome of the presidential election and continued to govern through intimidation and force.
He also appealed directly to members of the military and security forces, claiming many had supported him during the election. He urged them to “reconcile” with the Cameroonian people and avoid participating in what he characterized as political repression.
Drawing comparisons with political transitions in countries including Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Tunisia, Egypt and Madagascar, Tchiroma said Cameroonians should remain united in pursuing democratic change. He announced that he would soon launch what he described as a “general mobilization” aimed at bringing together citizens and security forces in support of political reforms.
The Cameroonian government has consistently rejected allegations that the 2025 presidential election was stolen or that political opponents are being systematically persecuted. Authorities have maintained that arrests carried out by security forces are based on violations of the law and are handled in accordance with judicial procedures.
Tchiroma’s latest address comes amid continued political tensions following the disputed presidential election, with opposition figures continuing to challenge the legitimacy of the current administration while the government insists constitutional institutions remain fully operational.
