Opposition Leader in Cameroon Reports Abduction of Family Members and Personal Staff

Cameroonian opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has accused the government of abducting two family members and his personal chef in Garoua, amid what he described as a campaign of repression following the disputed October 12 presidential election, which he claims to have won.

In multiple statements, Tchiroma condemned what he called “an open war against the Cameroonian people,” alleging widespread arrests, violence, and intimidation by authorities determined to stay in power.

He revealed that he has left his home in Garoua and is now under the protection of what he termed “loyalist army elements,” thanking them for ensuring his safety. Tchiroma demanded the immediate release of his relatives and other detainees, vowing to continue his fight against the regime and urging supporters to remain steadfast.

The government has yet to respond to the allegations, though tensions remain high in northern Cameroon, where protests and security deployments have reportedly increased.