Cameroon’s long-serving President, Paul Biya, has been declared the winner of the country’s October 12, 2025, presidential election, extending his more than four-decade rule.

According to the Constitutional Council, Biya’s Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) secured 53.66 percent of the votes, defeating his main rival Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35.19 percent. Voter turnout was reported at 57.7 percent.

The announcement has however, sparked violent protests in several parts of the country. In the economic capital, Douala, security forces reportedly opened fire on demonstrators, leading to at least four deaths. Similar protests were also recorded in Garoua, in the country’s north.

Opposition parties and civil society groups have alleged widespread electoral irregularities, including ballot-box stuffing, ghost voters, and unequal access to ballot papers.

At 92 years old, Biya remains one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, having been in power since 1982. His re-election has raised fresh concerns about political stability and democratic governance in the Central African nation.