In a dramatic escalation of Cameroon's political standoff, opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has declared himself the legitimate President-elect of the nation. This bold move follows the highly disputed October presidential election and signals a direct challenge to the authority of long-standing President Paul Biya.
A Defiant Declaration and Key Appointment
On Monday, November 17, Tchiroma Bakary used his verified social media channels to make his announcement. He issued an official decree under the title of "President-Elect of the Republic." Central to this decree was the appointment of a high-profile figure, Maître Alice Nkom, as his official spokesperson.
Alice Nkom is a highly respected lawyer at the Bar of Cameroon, renowned for her fearless advocacy for human rights and fundamental freedoms. She is a prominent voice within Cameroonian civil society. The decree explicitly authorizes her to represent Tchiroma's positions in all institutional, diplomatic, and media exchanges. She is also tasked with coordinating communication for the so-called Presidency-Elect, with the appointment taking immediate effect.
Justifying the Move Against "Institutional Hostage-Taking"
Tchiroma Bakary defended his controversial self-declaration by pointing to what he termed an "institutional hostage-taking" that he claims is preventing the true will of the Cameroonian people from being expressed. He insists that his action is not a power grab but a reflection of the sovereign choice made by voters during the October 12 presidential poll.
This development occurs against a backdrop of heightened political tension in Cameroon. The nation is currently grappling with the aftermath of President Paul Biya's swearing-in for another term, an event the opposition rejects. The appointment of a figure of Nkom's stature is seen as a strategic move to lend credibility and greater visibility to Tchiroma's camp during this critical period.
Spokesperson Accepts with a "Profound Sense of Duty"
Alice Nkom has publicly accepted the high-stakes role. According to reports from the Cameroon News Agency, she welcomed the appointment in a Facebook post. She stated that "a new page opens for our country" and that she accepted the responsibility with respect, seriousness, and a profound sense of duty.
She framed her mission as belonging not to her personally, but to the Cameroonian people and their sovereign will. Nkom made several key commitments in her statement:
- To faithfully carry the voice of the President-elect.
- To share his vision with clarity.
- To defend the truth with consistency.
- To serve every Cameroonian with loyalty.
She concluded with a powerful declaration, stating, "The voice of the President-elect will be strong. My word will be clear. The truth will be non-negotiable. And Cameroon enters an era of courage, responsibility, and transparency." This appointment is expected to be formally communicated to national and international partners through the appropriate channels, setting the stage for a continued and potentially intensified political confrontation.
