Opposition figure Issa Tchiroma Bakary has declared himself the President-elect of Cameroon following the October 12, 2025 presidential election. He asserts that his campaign has compiled results from polling stations nationwide and that these figures show he won an outright majority. Tchiroma has urged incumbent President Paul Biya to concede and called for what he describes as a peaceful and democratic transition of power.
In a move to reinforce the legitimacy of his claim, Tchiroma issued a decree announcing the appointment of prominent human-rights lawyer Alice Nkom as the official spokesperson of what he refers to as his “elected presidency.” According to the decree, Nkom will oversee communications, represent his position in national and international forums, and speak on behalf of his political movement. Her appointment marks a significant effort by Tchiroma to establish a structured communication framework as part of his challenge to the official electoral outcome.
Tchiroma’s declaration comes amid escalating political tension. Although he insists that his claim reflects the will of the electorate, Cameroon’s constitutional process has not validated his declaration. Under national law, only the Constitutional Council can proclaim the winner of a presidential election, and government authorities have dismissed his claim as unfounded.
Meanwhile, reports of clashes, arrests, and rising frustration among supporters of both sides indicate a deepening political standoff. As pressure builds, Tchiroma’s formation of a parallel political structure — with a spokesperson and public decrees — suggests a prolonged contest over legitimacy.
References
- Reuters – Coverage of election tensions and opposition activity in Cameroon.
- AP News – Reports on government response and rising tensions.
- Le Monde – Official government rejection of the opposition’s victory claim.
- Social media and local press reports on Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s decree appointing Alice Nkom.
