Yaoundé – The Catholic Church in Cameroon has called for calm amid mounting tensions over the presidential election held on 12 October. Opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government spokesman, has declared himself the winner, claiming victory over 92-year-old President Paul Biya, who seeks to extend his 43-year rule by another seven years.
Tchiroma’s announcement has been rejected by the government and Biya’s ruling party, with officials labeling it illegal. The Constitutional Council, which is responsible for confirming official results, has until 27 October to announce the winner.
Tchiroma, 76, has vowed to defend his claimed victory, raising concerns about potential unrest across the country.
In a statement, the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon called for peace and stability, urging that the official results reflect the will of the voters. The bishops stated that no authority should alter the outcome of the election.
The Church has long been viewed as a moral authority in Cameroon, and several prelates have openly criticized Biya’s governance. In January, Monsignor Yaouda Hourgo, Bishop of the Diocese of Yagoua, described Biya’s re-election bid as intolerable, suggesting that the nation had already endured enough under his leadership.
Following allegations of fraud, the Constitutional Council announced that it would begin hearing complaints this Wednesday, a process that will determine who officially becomes the next president. The Catholic Bishops reminded judges that “the truth shall set you free.”
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