Cameroon: Protests in Yaoundé February 1-2 /update 2

Event

Supporters of the opposition Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) party, along with other opposition groups, are planning to stage a protest - despite an official ban -, in Yaoundé on Saturday, February 2, to denounce the arrest of their leader Maurice Kamto on January 28. The exact time and location for the protest have not been released as of January 31. A heightened security presence is likely and clashes between security forces and protesters are possible.

On a related note, the Collectif 300 + Diaspora civil society group is planning to stage a protest in Yaoundé on Friday, February 1, to denounce recent opposition protests in Douala. Protesters are expected to gather at the Hotel de Ville and march to the Governor's office building. 

Context

Kamto's MRC party staged nationwide demonstrations on January 26 to protest alleged election irregularities. Security forces opened fire on MRC supporters during a demonstration in Douala, wounding at least three people. Police also reportedly arrested more than 100 people nationwide during the anti-government protests. Protests also eurpted reportedly in Douala overnight (local time) on January 28-29 following the arrest of Kamto.

Kamto won 14 percent of the vote in the October 7 presidential elections, taking second place behind incumbent President Paul Biya. He subsequently rejected the election results and called for an independent vote recount. Cameroon's electoral body has denied all claims of election interference and the Constitutional Court has validated the election results.

Advice

Individuals in Cameroon, particularly in Yaoundé and Douala, are advised to closely monitor developments and avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence.