By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Markets in Yaoundé have been flooded with residents buying food supplies as fears grow about the aftermath of the October 12 presidential election results.
While unconfirmed rumors had announced October 23 as the proclamation day, a widely circulated communiqué on social media, signed by the President of the Constitutional Council, Clément Atangana, stated that the results will be proclaimed on Monday, October 27.
This date is the final day specified by the Electoral Code for the Constitutional Council to declare the results, which must be announced 15 days after the election.
However, the uncertainty surrounding the election results proclamation day has led to heightened anxiety among citizens, prompting many to take precautions. On Wednesday, October 21, markets, especially in Mendong and Acacia, resembled the eve of Christmas Day, reflecting the urgency of city dwellers to stock up on essentials.
“I need to buy food and keep it at home because I don’t know what will happen after the results are announced,” one resident said while hurrying through the market. Another added, “Cameroon is scary, and we need to prepare. We are hearing a lot of rumors, and I’m afraid. I want to secure food for my family so we can stay indoors if things go wrong.”
Among the most sought-after items are non-perishable staples such as rice, cooking oil, beans, and corn—products residents believe can sustain their families for an extended period should unrest ensue.
Many expressed concerns about civil unrest or instability following the announcement of the results. Amid heightened security concerns, several school administrations have reportedly instructed pupils and students to remain home, with a tentative return to classes scheduled for Monday.
Political tension across Cameroon continues to mount. One of the presidential candidates, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, has repeatedly and publicly claimed victory since the polls closed. Incumbent President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982, was seeking an eighth term in office against a field of 11 opposition candidates.
Cameroon now awaits the final, constitutionally mandated announcement from the Constitutional Council, hoping for a peaceful conclusion to a period of intense uncertainty.
