Despite a ban on demonstrations and strict orders from local authorities, protests broke out across parts of Douala this past Sunday. The New Bell neighborhood witnessed some of the most intense confrontations between police and demonstrators.
The protests were triggered by a call from Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who urged people to come out in large numbers to support him and to ensure that the government does not announce false election results. Eyewitness reports reveal that groups of young protesters gathered in the streets despite a city mayor’s order prohibiting them from demonstrating. They showed their support for Bakary and demanded recognition of what they referred to as “the people’s victory”.
At Carrefour Ange-Raphaël, demonstrators reportedly removed campaign banners bearing the image of outgoing President Paul Biya, an act carried out in front of gendarmes as the crowd chanted “Issa Tchiroma President”. In New Bell, Makea, the situation quickly escalated as police and anti-riot units (FMO) moved in to disperse the protesters. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as tear gas filled the air and warning shots were fired. Several motorbikes were confiscated, and multiple arrests were made.
Sunday’s events confirm that the orders issued by the Douala City Mayor and Divisional Officers, which banned public gatherings and motorcycle movement, were largely ignored by protesters determined to express frustration over the contested presidential results. On the official day of proclamation, observers are urging people to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary gatherings as the government faces increasing pressure to manage unrest while preventing escalation.
