• Paul Biya has been sworn in for his eighth term as president of Cameroon.
• The election has been marred by accusations of fraud and violence.
• Opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary claims to be the rightful winner.
• Protests erupted following the election, leading to multiple civilian deaths.

Paul Biya, the world's oldest president at 92, has officially been sworn in for his eighth seven-year term in a ceremony held in Cameroon’s capital, Yaoundé, amidst significant unrest and allegations of electoral fraud. The incumbent leader, who has been in power since 1982, received approximately 53.66% of the votes in the recent election, a result that has been fervently contested by his opposition rival, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who received 35.19% of the votes. Tchiroma has labeled Biya's victory as "a constitutional coup," escalating tensions within the country, according to BBC and Los Angeles Times.

Amidst the backdrop of Biya's swearing-in, widespread protests occurred across Cameroon, drawing attention to the dissent against the ruling government following the October 19 election. These protests, which reportedly resulted in at least five confirmed deaths and possibly more, have been triggered by allegations of vote tampering and an atmosphere of oppression felt by many citizens. Protests erupted from Tchiroma's supporters, reflecting widespread disillusionment with the current government's governance, according to Al Jazeera and Le Monde.

During his inauguration address, Biya promised to ensure a "united, stable, and prosperous" Cameroon, acknowledging the challenges the country faces, including pressing issues such as economic stagnation and civil unrest. He expressed determination to remain worthy of the trust bestowed by the Cameroonian people, while the opposition continues to call for political reform and accountability, according to Africa News and Anadolu Agency.

The political climate in Cameroon is tense, as evidenced by public sentiment captured in citizen statements. Local residents express doubt that Biya's continued leadership will induce any significant change, highlighting a lack of basic services such as roads and employment opportunities. This sentiment reflects a broader disenchantment among young people, over 70% of the population, who have grown weary of Biya’s long-standing rule, according to Los Angeles Times.