• Paul Biya declared winner of Cameroon’s presidential election with 53.66% of the votes.
• Controversial election results have sparked violent protests, resulting in numerous casualties.
• Opposition leaders reject the outcome, alleging widespread electoral fraud.
• Biya's administration faces calls for political change after over four decades in power.
• International observers noted several irregularities during the electoral process.

Cameroon's President Paul Biya has been confirmed as the winner of the October 12 presidential election, securing 53.66% of the vote, according to the Constitutional Council, extending his reign for an eighth term. His main opponent, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, received 35.19%, as violent protests erupted following the announcement, leading to clashes in various cities, particularly in Douala, where reports indicate that at least four people lost their lives during the unrest, according to aa and bbc.

The election has been described as **highly controversial**, with Tchiroma declaring victory prior to the official results. His allegations of fraud have been echoed by observers and other opposition leaders, asserting that the electoral process was fundamentally compromised. "What we experienced was not an election worthy of a Republic," stated Tomaino Ndam Njoya, a female candidate who finished in fifth place, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction among the populace, as reported by Reuters and Africanews.

Protesters have taken to the streets demanding change, citing severe economic challenges and governance failures during Biya's more than four-decade-long rule. This anger has been compounded by accusations of a **"stolen victory"**, with many citizens questioning the legitimacy of the election results, a sentiment that has been affirmed by political analysts calling for national mediation to ease tensions, according to Africanews and Reuters.

Data from the government indicated a voter turnout of approximately 58%, though many observers noted significant irregularities, such as deceased individuals listed on electoral rolls. These irregularities drew scrutiny from civil society groups who called for reforms in the electoral process to ensure transparency as dissatisfaction mounts among the electorate, as highlighted by Africanews and bbc.