Speaking at parliament in Yaoundé, Biya insisted that the country would overcome the crisis and said the electoral process had been properly managed by the national commission. His victory was confirmed at 54 percent of the vote, while his main opponent, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, received 35 percent.
Tchiroma Bakary continues to assert that he won the election and has accused the government of fraud, allegations officials strongly deny. The announcement of results triggered demonstrations across several regions, with at least 14 deaths and more than 1,200 arrests reported. Rights groups say the actual number of casualties may be higher.
During his address, Biya praised security forces for responding to the unrest but did not comment on claims that they used excessive force. He urged Cameroonians to move forward and work together for what he called a united and prosperous future. He also pledged to prioritise issues affecting women and young people, and to renew efforts against corruption and security threats.
Biya’s presidency, spanning more than four decades, has long drawn criticism from opponents who accuse him of centralising power and suppressing dissent. Ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, several areas of the country saw major strike action organised by Tchiroma Bakary, particularly in Garoua and Douala where he holds strong support.
Tchiroma Bakary has called on foreign governments to place sanctions on Cameroonian officials in response to the handling of protests and the contested vote. The Constitutional Council has already dismissed multiple legal challenges due to insufficient evidence or lack of jurisdiction. Although he continues to dispute the outcome publicly, Tchiroma Bakary has not filed a formal appeal.