Yaounde: Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government spokesperson and employment minister, has declared victory in Cameroon's presidential election held on October 12, 2025. Speaking from his hometown of Garoua, Tchiroma stated that the results clearly favored him and urged President Paul Biya, who is seeking an eighth term after 43 years in power, to respect the outcome of the vote.

Tchiroma, supported by a coalition of opposition parties and civic groups, has held large rallies during his campaign, drawing widespread enthusiasm among voters. He promised to release regional vote counts based on publicly posted results and commended citizens for resisting attempts at intimidation.

The government, however, has not officially responded to Tchiroma's claims. Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji warned that announcing unauthorized results could be considered an act of high treason. Official election results will only be declared by the Constitutional Council, which is expected to release them by October 26.

The election has created a tense political atmosphere, with supporters of both Tchiroma and Biya claiming an advantage. The coming days are likely to be critical in determining the legitimacy of the results and the future of Cameroon's leadership.