The African Union on Tuesday strongly criticized the harsh crackdown on protests in Cameroon following the disputed re-election of 92 year old President Paul Biya.
Clashes between security forces and demonstrators led to the death of at least four people, escalating tensions in a nation ruled for decades by the world’s oldest sitting head of state.
AU Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf voiced serious concern over reports of excessive force, arbitrary detentions, and attempts to silence political opponents questioning the election results.
“The African Union is gravely concerned about the reported violence, repression and arrests of protesters and political actors in connection with the election results,” Youssouf stated in a message released on social media.
Despite the criticism, the AU still offered formal congratulations to Biya on winning an eighth term in the October 12 election — a decision that sparked mixed reactions from analysts and opposition leaders.
Biya’s lengthy rule has been characterized by political durability but also accusations of corruption, intimidation, and authoritarian leadership. His latest victory, though expected, has fueled fresh anger among citizens who believe the electoral process was manipulated to keep him in power.
Human rights organizations have called on authorities to respect the right to peaceful demonstration, warning that continuous suppression could worsen unrest.
As international pressure mounts, major cities like Yaoundé and Douala remain on edge, with heavy security deployments and growing uncertainty about what lies ahead for the president and the deeply divided nation.
The African Union on Tuesday strongly criticized the harsh crackdown on protests in Cameroon following the disputed re-election of 92-year-old President Paul Biya.Clashes between security forces and demonstrators led to the death of at least four people, escalating tensions in a nation ruled for decades by the world’s oldest sitting head of state.AU Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf voiced serious concern over reports of excessive force, arbitrary detentions, and attempts to silence political opponents questioning the election results.“The African Union is gravely concerned about the reported violence, repression and arrests of protesters and political actors in connection with the election results,” Youssouf stated in a message released on social media.Despite the criticism, the AU still offered formal congratulations to Biya on winning an eighth term in the October 12 election — a decision that sparked mixed reactions from analysts and opposition leaders.Biya’s lengthy rule has been characterized by political durability but also accusations of corruption, intimidation, and authoritarian leadership. His latest victory, though expected, has fueled fresh anger among citizens who believe the electoral process was manipulated to keep him in power.Human rights organizations have called on authorities to respect the right to peaceful demonstration, warning that continuous suppression could worsen unrest.As international pressure mounts, major cities like Yaoundé and Douala remain on edge, with heavy security deployments and growing uncertainty about what lies ahead for the president and the deeply divided nation.
