Four killed in Cameroon ahead of presidential election results announcement

At least four people have been killed in Douala, Cameroon’s largest city, as police and opposition protesters clashed ahead of the announcement of presidential election results.

On Sunday, hundreds of opposition supporters barricaded roads and burned tyres in a dramatic escalation of  protests that have trailed the October 12 elections.

Unrest was also reported near Douala Airport and in the New Bell district.

Incumbent President Paul Biya is seeking to extend his rule beyond four decades.

Though presidential elections have yet to be announced, Issa Tchiroma, main opposition candidate, has already claimed victory.

Biya’s party has dismissed the claims.

Tchiroma claimed he won 54.8 percent of the votes against Biya’s 31.3 percent, and called on Cameroonians to protest if the Constitutional Council announces “falsified and distorted results”.

Samuel Diboua, governor of a region that includes Douala, said police posts had come under attack and security forces had “defended themselves”.

“Four people unfortunately lost their lives,” Diboua said.

The Constitutional Council is set to announce the official results on Monday.