Cameroon opposition candidate claims victory in presidential poll, asks Biya to concede

Issa Tchiroma, Cameroon opposition leader, has declared himself winner of the country’s presidential election.

In a nearly five-minute speech posted to social media early Tuesday, Tchiroma urged President Paul Biya, the perennial incumbent, to throw in the towel.

Official channels have yet to declare results of Sunday’s election.

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

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

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

“I want to say this with seriousness and simplicity: the people have chosen. And that choice must be respected,” Tchiroma said in his video message.

Tchiroma was once the government’s spokesperson and former minister of employment.

He broke ranks with Biya earlier this year and galvanised large crowds, drawing endorsements from a wide range of opposition parties and civic group.

They demanded the end of Biya’s four-decade rule.

Tchiroma thanked candidates who have already “sent their congratulations and recognised the will of the people”.

“Their gesture honors our democracy and marks the beginning of a new era where the unity of opposition and civil society becomes an irresistible force.

“I want to say this with seriousness and simplicity: the people have chosen. And that choice must be respected.”

The government has not officially responded to Tchiroma’s declaration.

However, Paul Nji, minister of interior, warned over the weekend that any unilateral publication of results would be considered “high treason”.

Nji said only the Constitutional Council has the authority to announce the winner.

His warning came after he said voting took place “hitch-free” across the country.