Archive · 31 Oct 2025
Cameroon opposition leader Tchiroma claims loyal soldiers escorted him to safety
An opposition leader in Cameroon, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, said that soldiers who are loyal to him helped him move to a safe place.
This happened after an election that he says he won, but the president was declared the winner.
People are upset about the election, and there have been protests.
Tchiroma wants everyone to stay home for three days to show they disagree with the election results.
He believes the army might be divided because some soldiers helped him.
The government has not commented on his claims.
Opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary claims loyal soldiers escorted him to safety following a disputed presidential election.
Tchiroma asserted that his escort by soldiers indicates patriotism and a potential split within the country's security forces.
President Paul Biya was declared the winner of the October 12 election by the Constitutional Council.
The election results have led to violent protests in several cities, with a civil society group reporting at least 23 deaths and over 500 detentions.
Tchiroma has called for a three-day national lockdown starting Monday to protest the election outcome.
- Who
- Cameroon opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary
- What
- Stated he was escorted to safety by soldiers loyal to him, potentially indicating a split in the army; called for a three-day national lockdown.
- When
- Friday (escorted to safety); Monday (election declared winner); Monday (proposed lockdown)
- Where
- Garoua, northern Cameroon (previously holed up); across Cameroon (protests and proposed lockdown)
- Why
- Following a disputed presidential election where he claimed victory and ongoing violent protests.
Opposition Leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary
Official Government Stance (Undeclared)
Election Outcome
Opposition Leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary
Claims victory in the presidential election.
Official Government Stance (Undeclared)
The Constitutional Council declared President Paul Biya the winner.
Security Forces' Loyalty
Opposition Leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary
Asserts that soldiers loyal to him escorted him to safety, suggesting a potential split within the army.
Official Government Stance (Undeclared)
A spokesperson for the defense ministry declined to comment.
Public Reaction
Opposition Leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary
Calls for a national lockdown and resistance against the current regime.
Official Government Stance (Undeclared)
Security forces accused of killing protesters and making detentions.
- President
- Paul Biya
- Opposition Leader
- Issa Tchiroma Bakary
- Election Date
- October 12
- Protests Reported
- Violent protests in several cities
- Civil Society Claims
- At least 23 protesters killed, over 500 detained