Cameroon’s 92-year-old President, Paul Biya, has officially been sworn in for an eighth consecutive term in office, pledging to restore peace and stability in a nation rocked by post-election violence.
In his inaugural address on Thursday, Biya — the world’s oldest sitting president — expressed condolences to families affected by the violent protests, while blaming what he termed “irresponsible politicians” for fueling unrest following the disputed election results.
“I can assure you, order will reign,” Biya declared during his speech at the National Assembly in Yaoundé, urging citizens to move beyond what he described as a “pointless crisis.”
Biya secured 54% of the vote in the October election, according to the official results released by the electoral body, Elecam, while his closest rival, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, garnered 35%. Bakary, however, rejected the outcome, alleging widespread electoral fraud — claims the government has firmly denied.
The declaration of results sparked deadly demonstrations across major cities, leaving at least 14 people dead and more than 1,200 others arrested, according to figures from the National Human Rights Commission. Other groups have reported higher casualties.
While Biya commended the security forces for quelling the protests, he made no mention of allegations of excessive use of force by the military and police. Instead, he called for unity and cooperation to build what he described as a “united, stable, and prosperous Cameroon.”
The long-serving leader also promised to prioritize issues affecting women and youth, alongside renewed efforts to combat corruption and insecurity, which have long plagued his administration.
President Biya, who first assumed office in November 1982 following the resignation of Ahmadou Ahidjo, has ruled Cameroon for over four decades. Critics, however, accuse him of clinging to power and suppressing opposition voices.
Ahead of the inauguration, parts of the country, including Garoua and Douala, were brought to a standstill by a general strike called by Bakary, who insists he is the rightful winner of the election. He has urged foreign governments to impose sanctions on Cameroonian officials over alleged electoral irregularities and crackdowns on protesters.
The Constitutional Council dismissed eight complaints challenging the results, citing insufficient evidence or lack of jurisdiction to annul the election.
Bakary, leader of the National Salvation Front Party and a former Information Minister under Biya, has vowed to continue his resistance movement until his “victory” is recognized.
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