Cameroonian opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has sought refuge in The Gambia following his defeat in the October presidential election against long-serving President Paul Biya. The dramatic development comes amid rising political tensions in Cameroon.
Election Aftermath and Escape
The presidential election held on October 12, 2025 saw incumbent President Paul Biya emerge victorious, extending his decades-long rule. Bakary, who had served as a former cabinet minister, had previously declared victory before official results were announced.
According to confirmed reports, Bakary arrived in The Gambia on November 7, 2025. The Gambian government officially confirmed his arrival in a statement released on Sunday, November 23, 2025, ending weeks of speculation about the opposition leader's whereabouts.
Gambia's Humanitarian Response
The Gambian authorities clarified that Bakary is being hosted temporarily on purely humanitarian grounds. In their official statement, they emphasized "African solidarity and the need to ensure his safety while discussions continue to pursue a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the post-electoral tensions in Cameroon."
Officials in Banjul revealed that The Gambia is actively engaging with regional partners, including Nigeria, to support a negotiated outcome to the political crisis. The government stressed its commitment to African Union principles and assured that its territory would not be used for subversive activities against other nations.
Ongoing Political Unrest
Despite his departure from Cameroon, Bakary continues to challenge the election results. On Friday following his arrival in Gambia, he called for Cameroonians to enter mourning mode and maintain protests until he is declared the legitimate winner.
The Cameroonian government has responded with firm warnings against demonstrations. Authorities have threatened to take decisive action against anyone protesting the election outcome, signaling no tolerance for political unrest.
This situation echoes the 2018 election when opposition figure Maurice Kamto similarly proclaimed victory ahead of official results. Kamto was subsequently arrested, and his supporters faced violent dispersal by security forces, including tear gas and water cannons, with dozens detained.
The development highlights growing regional concern about political stability in Cameroon and represents another chapter in the country's contentious electoral history under President Biya's long rule.
