Cameroon’s highest court has thrown out all legal challenges against the country’s October presidential election, setting the stage for the official announcement of the final results.
The Constitutional Council made it clear that its rulings are final and cannot be appealed.
A total of 10 petitions contesting the October 12 poll were brought before the council, with claims ranging from ballot rigging and voter intimidation to other alleged irregularities. However, the court ruled that the petitioners failed to provide enough evidence to support their accusations.
One of the opposition candidates, Issa Tchiroma, maintained that he was the true winner of the election, vowing not to accept any other outcome.
“If they choose to endanger the peace and calm of our nation instead of accepting defeat, we will respond with the peaceful determination of our people,” Tchiroma declared during a speech on his official campaign platform.
Unofficial tallies indicate that President Paul Biya, the long-serving leader, is currently ahead in the count.
Meanwhile, sporadic protests have erupted in several cities, including Garoua in northern Cameroon, which happens to be Tchiroma’s hometown.
The Constitutional Council is expected to announce the final results by Sunday, marking the conclusion of one of the most closely watched elections in the country’s recent history.
