Cameroon’s opposition candidate, Tchiroma, escapes to Gambia

The Gambian government has confirmed the presence of Cameroonian opposition candidate and self-acclaimed president‑elect, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, on its territory following post-election tensions in Cameroon. In a statement issued on Sunday, authorities in Banjul said Tchiroma arrived on November 7 and is being hosted “for humanitarian reasons,” stressing that the measure was taken in the […]

The Gambian government has confirmed the presence of Cameroonian opposition candidate and self-acclaimed president‑elect, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, on its territory following post-election tensions in Cameroon.

In a statement issued on Sunday, authorities in Banjul said Tchiroma arrived on November 7 and is being hosted “for humanitarian reasons,” stressing that the measure was taken in the spirit of African solidarity to ensure his safety while diplomatic discussions continue.

However, Daily Trust could not independently verify claims that Mr Bakary had been in the country since earlier this month.

The announcement comes against the backdrop of Cameroon’s recent presidential election, which was marred by disputes and unrest.

The polls, held earlier last month, saw Tchiroma as first runner-up while President Biya declared a winner for his eighth consecutive term.

Tchiroma, who contested President Biya’s victory in the October presidential election, claimed he secured 54.8% of the vote compared to Biya’s 53.7%.

Biya, the world’s oldest sitting President, has since been sworn in for his eighth term in office.

Gambia emphasised that its territory will not be used as a base for any subversive activities against Cameroon or any other African Union member state.

Officials noted that the government is working closely with regional partners, including Nigeria, to promote a peaceful and negotiated resolution to the crisis.

“The elected president is being hosted temporarily in Gambia for humanitarian reasons, in a spirit of African solidarity,” the statement read, adding that the country remains committed to respecting the sovereignty of AU member states.

Observers say Gambia’s stance reflects its own democratic journey, recalling the contested transition of 2017 when former president Yahyah Jammeh was pressured to step down after refusing to accept defeat in the 2016 elections.

The peaceful handover to the legitimate winner positioned Gambia as a voice for stability and dialogue in West Africa.

By hosting Tchiroma, Banjul is seeking to project itself as a mediator and advocate for democratic ideals in the region.

Banjul assured that it will continue to keep the Gambian public informed of developments as diplomatic efforts unfold.