Cameroon: Massive Crowd Backs Presidential Candidate Issa Tchiroma in Douala

Tens of thousands of supporters braved rain and long hours in Douala to attend a rally for presidential candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary of the Cameroon National Salvation Front. Tchiroma, arriving to cheers like a rockstar, urged President Paul Biya to concede defeat if he loses and warned authorities against election fraud. Supporters expressed strong commitment to monitoring votes and ensuring Tchiroma’s victory on 12 October.

Tens of thousands of people gathered behind the expansive esplanade of the Omnisports Stadium in Douala on Sunday, braving hours of waiting and intermittent rain to listen to presidential candidate and former minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary. The scene reflected a remarkable level of enthusiasm, as supporters of the Cameroon National Salvation Front demonstrated unwavering commitment despite the challenging weather conditions and long hours of anticipation.

Supporters expressed their deep admiration for Tchiroma, highlighting his popularity across the nation. “He is so beloved by the Cameroonian people, and I don't think we've ever seen a crowd like the one today,” said Mohamadou Hadji, a devoted follower. “This is a great testament to the Cameroonian people's support for Issa Tchiroma Bakary, to whom we promise a 100% victory on 12 October,” he added, emphasizing the collective determination of his fellow citizens.

Tchiroma’s arrival in Douala was met with a level of excitement reminiscent of a rockstar’s entrance. A sea of people surrounded him as he made his way through the city, having previously visited the English-speaking towns of Buea and Limbé, where he had engaged with crowds along his journey. His presence commanded attention and elicited fervent cheers from his supporters, who had been patiently waiting to catch a glimpse of their candidate.

During the rally, Tchiroma made a direct appeal to incumbent President Paul Biya, urging him to accept the outcome of the forthcoming election. “You will call your opponent, who was chosen by the people, to say, ‘Mr. President, I concede defeat. Congratulations, and today you will go down in history!’” he declared, a statement met with enthusiastic applause and affirmations from the gathered crowd.

For the audience, the event represented more than just a political gathering; it was seen as a historic moment in Cameroon’s electoral process, one that they hoped would be validated in the ballot box. Supporters emphasized the importance of unity and vigilance on election day. “All we want is for us to all vote for the same person, monitor our votes, and check our ballots, so that on the evening of 12 October, we can proclaim our own victory, and that President Tchiroma becomes President of Cameroon,” said Taddoum Moïse, reflecting the collective resolve of the crowd.

Tchiroma also used the rally to address concerns over intimidation and threats he claims to have received from the current administration. He issued a stern warning to the territorial administration, the electoral commission, and the Constitutional Council, asserting that in the event of any electoral irregularities, the people would take all necessary measures to ensure that his victory was recognized. His remarks underscored the high stakes of the election and the intensity of political engagement among his supporters, as they prepared for what they hope will be a decisive and historic outcome.