Cameroon awaits presidential election results as Paul Biya seeks to extend decades-long rule

Cameroon is on edge as it awaits the results of a tense presidential election in which President Paul Biya is seeking another term that could extend his rule beyond four decades.

At 92, Biya is the world’s oldest president.

Cameroon’s presidential elections were held on Sunday, with vote counting now under way.

The final result will be announced within 15 days of the vote.

Nine candidates are challenging Biya for the presidency. Issa Tchiroma, 76, his former spokesperson, is the leading opposition figure.

Tchiroma has galvanised large crowds demanding an end to Biya’s long tenure and drawn endorsements from a wide range of opposition parties and civic groups.

However, analysts say Biya could win, given his firm control over state institutions and the fragmented nature of the opposition.

If he wins, it will mark his eighth consecutive term in office. The next election is due in 2032.

Before the elections, Tchiroma alleged he was the subject of threats.

As polls were underway, his supporters thronged Garoua, a city in Cameroon, and clashed with security forces.

Paul Nji, minister of the interior, later said voting took place “hitch-free” across the country.

After casting his vote, Biya said “nothing is given”.

“Let’s wait and see. Let’s wait for the name of the winner,” he added.

His critics hope he will be ousted.