Cameroon’s president, Paul Biya, won an eighth term that would keep him in power until he is almost 100 years old in 2032.
“Hereby proclaimed President-elect: the candidate Biya Paul,” said Clement Atangana, president of the Constitutional Council.
Mr Biya, 92, was declared the winner of the country’s October 12 election on Monday after securing 53.66 per cent of the total votes, against top opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma, who had 35.19 per cent.
Mr Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, first came to power in 1982. Since then, he has won every reelection, maintaining a firm grip on power.
The announcement of Mr Biya’s victory follows a tense atmosphere, already dotted with the death of four protesters who clashed with the police in Douala, alongside pockets of demonstrations staged by opposition leaders and supporters.
Lead opposition candidate and former minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary had claimed victory after the election.
The rival contender had challenged Paul Biya to “show courage and humility” by congratulating him, claiming he secured “more than 50% of the valid votes.”
Amid concerns over his age, rare public appearances, multiple medical trips abroad, and doubts over his ability to govern effectively, Mr Biya hinged his re-election bid and victory on the promise to boost security, create jobs for the youth population, and improve infrastructure and social services.
