Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a Cameroonian political figure, has paid a strong tribute to Anicet Ekané, a historical leader of the opposition who died on December 1, 2025. This tribute, published on May 9, the day of Ekané's burial in his native village in the Littoral region, takes the form of a political declaration in which Tchiroma reaffirms his conviction that he won the presidential election of October 12, 2025.
In his text, Tchiroma, who presents himself as the "President-Elect of the Republic of Cameroon," praises Anicet Ekané's role in unifying the opposition and civil society. He describes Ekané as a major architect of multiparty politics, national sovereignty, and the fight against neo-colonialism in Cameroon. Tchiroma emphasizes Ekané's decisive influence in the popular dynamic surrounding his candidacy and the "broad support expressed by the people in [his] favor".
The tribute takes an accusatory turn by establishing a direct link between Ekané's death and his arrest, described as "arbitrary," as well as the "deprivation of his oxygen extractor". These accusations echo reports that Ekané's family denounced the lack of proper medical care during his detention. According to sources, Ekané's breathing apparatus was confiscated, which allegedly contributed to his death. Cameroon's Minister of Communication, René Emmanuel Sadi, stated that President Paul Biya had ordered an investigation into the circumstances of Ekané's death.
Tchiroma calls Ekané a "martyr" and a "national hero," reiterating his belief that he won the election thanks to the opposition's rally orchestrated by the deceased. He promises to organize national funerals for Anicet Ekané when he is "invested in [his] presidential function," persisting in his challenge to the official results.
The death of Anicet Ekané, which occurred after 38 days of detention, sparked strong reactions. Opposition figures, such as Maurice Kamto, have denounced the circumstances of his death. As a sign of protest, MANIDEM, Anicet Ekané's party, broke ties with Issa Tchiroma, accusing him of collusion with the government.
Issa Tchiroma Bakary, former Minister of Communication, continues to claim victory in the 2025 presidential election, despite the official results that give Paul Biya the winner. He has taken refuge in The Gambia.
