Cameroon: Several wounded in anti-government protests January 26

Event

Security forces reportedly opened fire on supporters of the opposition party Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) during a demonstration in Douala on Saturday, January 26, wounding at least three people. The MRC party organized demonstrations in Douala, Yaoundé, and Mbouda, to protest alleged election irregularities; the party's leader, Maurice Kamto, claimed victory in the October 2018 general election. Police also reportedly arrested more than 100 people nationwide during the anti-government protests. Leaders of MRC have threatened additional demonstrations should the government not release those arrested on Saturday. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected if further protests are organized. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out. 

Context

Maurice Kamto won 14 percent of the vote in the October 7 presidential elections, taking second place behind incumbent President Paul Biya. Kamto 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. During anti-government protests in later 2018, dozens of Kamto supporters were arrested during demonstrations in Douala and Yaoundé.

Advice

Individuals in Cameroon are advised to monitor for further demonstrations and avoid all political events and large public gatherings due to significant security concerns (e.g. unrest).