Cameroon: Political rally to take place in Yaoundé despite police ban November 2

Event

Opposition leader Maurice Kamto and his Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) party will hold a political rally in Yaoundé on Saturday, November 2, despite a police ban on the event. The rally is set to take place at the Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium.

A heightened security presence and localized disruptions, including roadblocks and public transport delays, are expected around the stadium. Clashes between participants and law enforcement cannot be ruled out.

Context

Opposition leader Maurice Kamto was a candidate in Cameroon's October 2018 presidential election, coming in second to incumbent President Paul Biya. Kamto publicly disputed the election results amid claims of corruption and declared himself the official winner. He was charged with sedition, insurrection, inciting violence, and hostility against the homeland and was subsequently jailed from January 26 until October 5.

Tensions between the country's minority English-speaking community and the national authorities are high in the Northwest and Southwest regions amid an ongoing separatist movement.

Advice

Individuals in Yaoundé are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests or large gatherings due to the risk of associated violence, and adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities.