Panorama papers
By Hippolyte Ikome
The death toll from Cameroon’s post-election crackdown continues to rise. Civil society organizations report that over 70 civilians have been killed nationwide within 48 hours of protests denouncing the contested presidential results. Dozens more are missing or injured amid what human rights advocates describe as an excessive and indiscriminate use of force by security forces.
International pressure is mounting. After the European Union urged independent investigations and accountability for civilian killings, the U.S. Senate is reportedly drafting a sanctions package targeting key ministers, military generals, and their associates accused of ordering or facilitating the violent repression.
In Yaoundé, authorities have remained silent as tension grips major cities. Witnesses describe snipers stationed on rooftops and joint patrols sweeping through opposition neighborhoods.
The crisis erupted after the proclamation of results from the 2025 presidential election, which declared Paul Biya the winner with 53.66% of the vote against Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s 35.19%. The opposition and several observers have denounced massive fraud and manipulation. As international condemnation grows, Cameroon—already weakened by the Anglophone conflict and economic hardship—now faces one of the most severe political crises in its recent history.
